*Coalition fails to protect temple assets*

Tadepalli, August 23: YSRCP former MLA Malladi Vishnu demanded a comprehensive inquiry into the disappearance of the sacred Mangalsutram of Goddess Bhramaramba at the Pedakakani Malleswara Swamy temple, stating that the incident exposed the coalition government’s negligence and the Endowments Department’s failure to protect temple assets.
Addressing the media at the YSRCP Central Office, Vishnu questioned how the Goddess’s Mangalsutram could disappear during the sacred Sravana month and why the police were not informed immediately. He demanded answers on whether the CCTV cameras were functioning, whether theft was involved and who was responsible.
He questioned why priests were summoned to the police station at midnight and subjected to questioning instead of fixing responsibility on the officials entrusted with temple administration and security. He said incidents involving missing gold, cash and irregularities in hundi counting had repeatedly surfaced at Pedakakani and other major temples, including Vijayawada Kanaka Durga temple.
Vishnu also criticised the government for delaying the appointment of Veda Parayanadars in TTD despite the process having been initiated during the YSRCP government to promote Vedic education. He said the previous government had also prepared a master plan and developed infrastructure for devotees at the Kanaka Durga temple.
He demanded an immediate inquiry into the missing Mangalsutram, action over the delay in registering the FIR, stronger CCTV surveillance and security at major temples, protection of temple jewellery, hundi collections and properties, and resolution of priests’ welfare issues. He warned that if the government failed to act, YSRCP would intensify its agitation and announce an action plan for the protection of temples and Hindu Dharma.