New Delhi: 

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the sacred Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, has suspended four employees for allegedly practising a non-Hindu religion. This action marks the fifth such suspension in a recent period, highlighting an ongoing controversy surrounding religious practices within the temple complex.

The controversy surrounding these suspensions brings into sharp focus the complex interplay between religious freedom, employment rights, and the management of religiously significant sites in India. Further discussion and clarification are likely needed to address the concerns raised by all parties involved.

The incident has sparked a wider debate concerning religious discrimination and the employment policies of the TTD. Critics argue the suspensions constitute religious discrimination and violate the employees’ rights. They highlight the lack of transparency surrounding the investigation and the potential for biased interpretations of religious practices. Conversely, supporters of the TTD maintain the need to uphold the temple’s religious and cultural integrity. They emphasise the temple’s significance to Hindu devotees and the importance of maintaining its traditional practices.

The suspensions followed an internal investigation by the TTD’s vigilance department. The department’s report cited evidence of “gross misconduct” and religious practices deemed incompatible with the temple’s code of conduct. The report detailed specific instances which, while not publicly disclosed, are considered sufficient grounds for termination. The TTD has not released the full report, citing confidentiality concerns.

This decision has been met with strong reactions. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, publicly welcomed the suspensions. However, he used the platform X (formerly Twitter) to demand broader action. He stated that hundreds of non-Hindu employees remain at Tirumala and asserted their presence compromises the temple’s sanctity. He called for their immediate dismissal.

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