Date: February 05, 2025
TTD Board Transfers Non-Hindu Employees to Restore Faith
TTD Board Transfers Non-Hindu Employees to Restore Faith in Tirumala Temple
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Board, under the leadership of Chairman B.R. Naidu, has taken a decisive step by transferring 18 non-Hindu employees who were allegedly involved in promoting other religions. This move is aimed at restoring the faith of Hindu devotees visiting the sacred shrine of Lord Venkateswara in Tirumala.
Addressing Devotees’ Concerns
Hindu devotees have long been demanding action against non-Hindu employees working in TTD, citing concerns over the spread of non-Hindu activities in and around Tirumala. Reports of non-vegetarian food, drugs, and alcohol being available on the sacred Tirumala Hills had further intensified these concerns. Many believed that some non-Hindu employees were responsible for this situation, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among pilgrims.
TTD Board Inquiry and Findings
In response to the mounting criticism, the TTD Board launched an inquiry and identified 69 employees, including retired personnel, who were found engaging in religious propaganda. Among those transferred were:
- Principal of TTD Women’s Polytechnic College
- Principal of Sri Venkateswara University’s Ayurveda College
- Lecturers in various educational institutions
- Hostel wardens and other administrative staff
Additionally, there are still around 300 non-Hindu employees working in various TTD departments.
Mismanagement During YSRCP Rule
The previous YSRCP-led government, under former CM Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, faced severe backlash for its mismanagement of TTD affairs. Several controversies damaged the credibility of the Board, including:
Religious propaganda on RTC tickets
Promotions for non-Hindu employees
Allegations of land auctions involving TTD properties
Use of party flag colors instead of Hindu deities’ images on SV University walls
Adulteration of ghee used in the sacred Tirupati laddoo
These controversies led to massive discontent among Hindu devotees, further fueling demands for reforms.
TDP Government’s Restoration Efforts
After assuming power with a strong mandate, the TDP-led coalition government has initiated several reforms to restore the sanctity of Tirumala temple. The removal of non-Hindu employees involved in religious propaganda seen as a bold step toward protecting Sanatana Dharma and Hindu traditions.
A significant section of Hindu devotees has welcomed this decision, expressing renewed confidence in the TTD Board’s efforts to preserve the religious integrity of Tirumala.