*Missing Hanuman idol exposes TTD security collapse*

Tadepalli, July 22: YSRCP official spokesperson Are Shyamala came down heavily on the coalition government, stating that even deities are no longer safe under its rule. Speaking to the media at the YSRCP Central Office in Tadepalli, she said the disappearance of the idol of Sri Anjaneya Swamy, revered by devotees as the guardian deity (Kshetrapalaka) of Tirumala, from the Alipiri footpath is a glaring example of the collapse of security and governance in TTD. She demanded that TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu accept responsibility for the repeated administrative failures and resign immediately.

Shyamala said devotees have, for over six decades, offered prayers to the Hanuman idol before beginning their pilgrimage to Lord Venkateswara. The disappearance of such a revered idol from one of the most sacred pilgrimage routes has deeply hurt the sentiments of millions of devotees. She pointed out that the incident was captured on CCTV, exposing serious lapses in TTD's security apparatus.

She stated that since B.R. Naidu assumed charge as TTD Chairman, Tirumala has witnessed one controversy after another, with repeated incidents affecting the sanctity of the shrine. From the deaths of cows in the TTD goshala to the presence of liquor, meat and narcotics on the sacred hill, the administration has failed to protect the spiritual character of Tirumala.

Shyamala questioned those who claim to be champions of Sanatana Dharma for remaining silent despite these repeated incidents. She said the coalition government has reduced Sanatana Dharma to a political slogan while failing to safeguard temples, idols and devotees' faith. She also criticised the TTD administration for failing to ensure even smooth darshan arrangements for pilgrims and said the repeated incidents in Tirumala are steadily eroding public confidence in the institution. She demanded immediate corrective measures and accountability from those responsible.