The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Tuesday made significant observations while hearing a case related to thefts at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Parakamani, the sacred counting centre for offerings made by devotees at the Tirumala Srivari temple. The court made it clear that incidents of theft at the Parakamani cannot be treated as routine or minor offences, describing the issue as one that directly affects the sentiments of crores of devotees.

Emphasising the sanctity of the Parakamani, the High Court observed that the counting of hundi offerings is a highly sensitive process and that any lapses or irregularities strike at the faith of devotees. The court underlined that such incidents demand serious attention and systemic correction rather than being brushed aside as isolated events.

The bench stressed the urgent need to modernise the Parakamani operations. It suggested that TTD should immediately move towards reducing human intervention in the counting process and adopt advanced technologies, including automated systems and Artificial Intelligence (AI), to enhance transparency, accuracy and security. Continuing with outdated manual methods despite recurring thefts, the court noted, was neither prudent nor acceptable.

At the same time, the High Court cautioned against the mistreatment of devotees who participate in the counting process as a service. It strongly disapproved of practices such as subjecting volunteers to intrusive or humiliating checks, including making them remove clothing, stating that such actions amount to disrespect and are unjustified. The court asserted that volunteers should not be treated with suspicion or indignity.