TTD issues show-cause notices to Vontimitta Temple priests

Temple priests visit Jagan’s residence, offer blessings

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has initiated disciplinary action against three priests of the Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple in Vontimitta for allegedly violating temple protocol by visiting the residence of former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy in Pulivendula and offering Vedic blessings. The priests are A Sravan Kumar, Veena Manoj Kumar, staff member K Parthasarathi.

The incident has triggered a firm response from the TTD administration, which emphasised that priests serving in temples under its jurisdiction are bound by strict codes of conduct. Officials noted that visiting political leaders in a personal capacity, while representing a temple institution, amounts to a breach of established religious and administrative norms.

According to TTD sources, the main issue revolves around the perceived compromise of temple decorum and neutrality. TTD maintains that temple functionaries must avoid actions that could be interpreted as aligning with political figures, thereby safeguarding the sanctity and institutional integrity of the temple system.

Show-cause notices have been issued to the three priests, directing them to submit a written explanation within two days. The notices reportedly warn that failure to provide a satisfactory response could lead to stringent disciplinary action, including possible suspension or removal from duties.

TTD officials reiterated that there would be zero tolerance when it comes to violations affecting temple traditions and protocol. “Maintaining the sanctity of the temple system is non-negotiable,” sources indicated, underlining that such actions are essential to uphold public trust in religious institutions.

As of now, the priests have not issued any formal response. The TTD is expected to take a final decision after reviewing their explanations.