Hindu Leaders Stir Controversy over Tirumala Temple Seditious Statements
Controversy erupted in Tirupati over alleged seditious remarks by ex-TTD chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, leading spiritual leaders to protest his actions. The standoff highlights concerns around the politicization of sacred spaces and calls for stricter enforcement.
Highlights
- •Protestors demand action against ex-PP chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy
- •Srinivasananda Saraswati Swamy emphasizes Tirumala's spiritual significance beyond politics
- •Seers allege ganja legalization and disturbed Hindu sentiments in the region
- •Bhumana denies political maneuvering, vows to continue questioning corruption
Tension escalated in the pilgrimage city of Tirupati on Sunday following a protest by Hindu organizations and spiritual leaders, who attempted to march towards the residence of ex-TTD chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy. The protestors, asserting that Reddy's comments have violated the sanctity of Lord Venkateswara's holy site, were thwarted from advancing towards their target location.
This confrontation between religious groups and law enforcement came after Srinivasananda Saraswati Swamy, a prominent seer, highlighted Tirumala as a spiritual center transcending political boundaries, emphasizing the significance of Lord Venkateswara to devotees worldwide.
Protestors' Core Demands
The protesters accused Bhumana of politicizing sacred spaces and demanded his public apology. Additionally, they criticized his son Abhinay Reddy for actions deemed detrimental to Hindu sentiments in the city known as Tirupati. Notably, the seers raised concerns about the legalization of ganja in the region, urging stringent police action.
A.Narayana Rao, Honorary President of the Sadhu Parishad, along with Paripoornananda Swamy and Dayananda Swamy, further implored authorities to file cases against those reportedly responsible for disturbances. Tirukshetrala Parirakshana Samiti president Omkar supported their stance.
Responding to Allegations
Bhumana vehemently denied any support from TTD chairman B.R. Naidu and accused him of orchestrating protests near his home, attributing these actions toward silencing critics who question corruption and illegal activities in Tirumala. He also alleged that certain activists had disguised themselves as seers to participate in the protest.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Bhumana reaffirmed his commitment to exposing corruption and insisted that he would not be intimidated by potential threats or protests.
Following this altercation, YSRC workers were dispersed following reports of heightened tensions when protesters approached Padmavathi Puram. Police engaged in talks with the seers and successfully persuaded them to de-escalate their demonstration peacefully.
