Darshan at Isthakameswari Temple Suspended Amid Dispute
Authorities said darshan will resume once the dispute is resolved
KURNOOL: Darshan at the Isthakameswari Temple, located in the Nallamala Forest near Srisailam in Nandyal district, has been temporarily suspended following a dispute between forest officials and Chenchu community drivers.
The issue arose after two devotees reportedly travelled on a single motorcycle to the temple, despite norms allowing only one person per vehicle with a valid darshan ticket. The violation came to light at the temple premises, where Chenchu drivers, authorised to transport pilgrims objected and raised the issue with forest officials.
According to officials, the darshan ticket amount was refunded to the devotees who arrived on the motorcycle. However, the incident triggered a dispute between drivers and officials over enforcement of rules and operational control.
Darshan continued until the end of the day on Saturday, after which authorities suspended temple visits for a couple of days to resolve the issue.
The forest department regulates pilgrim movement as the temple is located deep inside a protected forest zone, with only a limited number of visitors permitted each day and travel restricted to designated vehicles.
Authorities said darshan will resume once the dispute is resolved. Meanwhile, devotees have expressed concern over the suspension and are awaiting clarity on the reopening of temple visits.
