In 2017, Punjab-domiciled officer became the first ‘north Indian’ to be appointed TTD administrative head. His reappointment to the post now has raised eyebrows in Andhra Pradesh.
CM’s statement is an endorsement of TTD's action in February, when it barred 18 non-Hindus from employment at the temple. TDP-led NDA govt had pursued the matter in previous term, too.
The announcement came amid protests from seers, Hindu groups in the temple town. Naidu, however, indicated lands could be given to the hotel firms at a different location in Tirupati.
Last week's Tirupati stampede, which resulted in deaths of six devotees, has revived criticism of decision to extend Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam at Lord Venkateshwara temple to 10 days.
Religious freedom should include the right of institutions to not employ those who may be inimical to it, but in “secular” India it is apparently a pointer to Hindu bigotry.
Employment of non-Hindus has been a contentious issue at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, which oversees the Tirumala temple, and across Andhra Pradesh.
The temple rituals take from multiple Hindu sects: Vaishnava, Shaiva, Kaumara, and Shakta. This integrated vision has made Tirupati the most popular temple of our time.
Subramaniam Swamy's petition, heard by SC Friday, cited ThePrint's report quoting TTD executive officer, saying ghee found to be contaminated was never used to make laddus.
Andhra CM Naidu alleges the ghee used for the laddus was adulterated with animal fat during ex-CM Jagan's regime. Jagan points out samples were taken after Naidu took over as CM.
SEBI probe concluded that purported loans and fund transfers were paid back in full and did not amount to deceptive market practices or unreported related party transactions.
India exited the Indo-Russian FGFA programme in 2018. But now it might procure at least 2 squadrons of Su-57 aircraft from Russia and evaluate Russian proposal to manufacture them in India.
Many really smart people now share the position that playing cricket with Pakistan is politically, strategically and morally wrong. It is just a poor appreciation of competitive sport.
COMMENTS