Accuses party of turning TTD canteens into hubs of corruption  n Reveals plans for enhanced security at Alipiri with modern equipment and the establishment of a cyber-security lab to counter cybercrimes

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Chairman BR Naidu launched a scathing attack on the previous YS Jagan government and its leaders and how they diluted the sanctity of the Sri Tirumala Temple, its activities and its functions. He accusing them of mismanagement and disrespecting the Hindu sentiments.

Speaking to media persons here, BR Naidu highlighted the TTD’s commitment to devotee welfare, noting that 2 lakh devotees partake in Annaprasadam daily and express satisfaction with the arrangements. “We are ensuring continuous Annaprasadam distribution and making arrangements to prevent any inconvenience to devotees,” he said. He also announced that, on the orders of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, daily Annadanam is being conducted at Ontimitta, and locals are being provided darshan one day each month.

Addressing allegations of mismanagement, Naidu accused the previous YSRCP regime of allowing a “mafia” to operate in Tirumala’s canteens and hotels. “The YSRCP mafia turned hotels into hubs of corruption. We are fighting this legally and will soon start new canteens,” he declared. He also revealed plans for enhanced security at Alipiri with modern equipment and the establishment of a cyber-security lab to counter cybercrimes, including complaints filed against 30,000 fake websites exploiting darshan and prasadam services.

Naidu didn’t hold back in his criticism of YSRCP leaders, particularly targeting former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, Bharati Reddy, and Karunakar Reddy. “Who are they to attack Hindu temples and hurt devotees’ sentiments?” he questioned, challenging them to visit Tirumala, participate in rituals, and then speak. “They won’t come to Tirumala or partake in prasadam, so why interfere in our affairs?” he added.

The TTD Chairman also addressed financial concerns, claiming no funds were misused under his leadership in the past nine months. He accused the previous YSRCP government of burdening TTD with Rs. 140 crore in interest due to decisions made in 2022, calling it a conspiracy to tarnish TTD’s reputation and push it into debt. Naidu labeled Karunakar Reddy a “looter” and alleged widespread corruption under his watch, vowing that those responsible would soon face legal consequences.

On temple development, Naidu shared that TTD is allocating funds for the upkeep of affiliated temples and expanding its presence, with temples already established in nine states and plans to set up more across the country.

Naidu emphasized transparency in TTD’s operations, noting that decisions, including those on ticket allocations, are made collectively by the board. He clarified that he never used the 100 tickets allocated to him and urged devotees to hold wrongdoers accountable. “We are here to serve God, not to loot like others,” he said, adding that TTD is open to devotees’ suggestions to improve services.

In a pointed remark, Naidu questioned whether Jagan and Bharati Reddy had ever participated in TTD’s Brahmotsavam or partaken in prasadam, dismissing their criticisms as baseless. “If you make false allegations without evidence, we will not stay silent,” he warned, reaffirming TTD’s commitment to safeguarding Hindu traditions and ensuring a seamless experience for devotees. 

Whether Jagan and Bharati Reddy had ever participated in TTD’s Brahmotsavam or partaken in prasadam?

BR Naidu TTD Chairman