Vizianagaram, Jan 31: Former minister and Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council Botcha Satyanarayana expressed deep concern over the alarming situation prevailing in Andhra Pradesh, stating that the ruling coalition has shifted its focus from governance to controversies and deliberate provocation. He said that in a democracy, the opposition has a duty to constantly monitor the government and raise its voice whenever people face hardship, but it is dangerous when the government itself creates unrest and instability.
Botcha said dragging Lord Venkateswara, the revered Kaliyuga deity, into day-to-day political battles is nothing short of sacrilege. He pointed out that the Supreme Court constituted a SIT and the CBI filed its charge sheet, clearly stating that no animal fat was found in the Tirumala laddu ghee. That should have ended the matter, he said, but instead, those in power continue to speak irresponsibly, misinterpret the findings, and fuel agitation by erecting flex banners and spreading confusion across villages. He appealed to the ruling establishment to stop using the deity and devotees’ faith for political gain, stressing that even while folding hands in prayer, leaders must not exploit Lord Venkateswara for politics.
He questioned why, when similar allegations surfaced earlier at Simhachalam, no resignations were demanded from trustees, and why the government failed to follow the CBI report in letter and spirit. He warned that politicising the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams damages its sanctity and credibility, and demanded that the TTD Executive Officer be immediately attached to the government to restore accountability. He also urged all political parties to exercise restraint and called upon the government to ensure law and order, noting that even devotees are being stopped by police from visiting temples and notices are being selectively issued.
On the issue of land, Botcha strongly criticised the alleged encroachment involving GITAM University, stating that it is a private institution that already possesses over 70 acres. He questioned why an additional 54.79 acres, valued at nearly ₹5,000 crore, should be handed over, calling it a clear case of land grab. He asserted that if such land were auctioned transparently, the proceeds could complete multiple government medical colleges, and demanded accountability instead of preferential treatment.
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