Political Display at Tirumala Sparks Outrage

Nellore: A group of youths from Tamil Nadu created a stir in front of the Tirumala Srivari Temple by engaging in overenthusiastic political activity, prompting concern among devotees and temple authorities on Thursday.

The youths displayed a banner featuring photographs of political leaders, including former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa and AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami, and created a commotion near the temple. They were also seen recording videos and reels with the banner, which were later uploaded to social media. The video soon went viral. Political promotion and propaganda are strictly prohibited on Tirumala hill under the rules of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The incident was a clear violation of these norms.

Reacting strongly, the TTD issued an official statement. “It has come to our notice that some devotees from Tamil Nadu displayed a banner with photographs of political leaders in the vicinity of the Srivari Temple, which is against TTD regulations. They not only displayed the banner, but also recorded videos and posted them on social media. Legal action will be initiated against those involved,” the TTD chief public relations officer said.

Meanwhile, several devotees expressed grave concern about the effectiveness of security checks at the Alipiri checkpoint, questioning how banners could have been allowed to pass despite claims of thorough inspections. The TTD reiterated that strict action will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future and to protect Tirumala's sanctity and spiritual atmosphere.