VIJAYAWADA: Emphasizing that no one stopped YSRC president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy from visiting Tirumala, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu stated on Friday, "If Jagan wishes to go to Tirumala, he is free to do so. However, he must respect the traditions and customs observed there. No individual is above traditions and customs."
Naidu firmly rejected Jagan’s claim that notices were issued to prevent his visit, clarifying that Section 30 of the Police Act was enforced in Tirupati to prevent large gatherings and maintain law and order. “Jagan should prove his allegations by presenting the notice to the media,” Naidu said, accusing the YSRC chief of fabricating the claims to avoid visiting the shrine.
Addressing Jagan’s remarks regarding his religious faith, Naidu questioned why Jagan was reluctant to sign the declaration of faith, especially when it was common knowledge that he is a Christian. Responding to Jagan’s claim of previous visits without signing the form, Naidu said, “As Chief Minister, Jagan violated the rules, but he cannot continue to misuse his position.”
Naidu also refuted Jagan’s assertion that Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Executive Officer had denied the use of adulterated ghee in making the temple’s Prasadam. He explained that out of the eight tankers of ghee supplied by AR Foods, four were rejected after tests confirmed adulteration. “The TTD lacked mechanisms to check adulteration, but after complaints from devotees, samples were tested, and adulteration was confirmed,” he noted, adding that a state-of-the-art lab would soon be established to prevent such issues.
In addition, Naidu announced plans to introduce legislation ensuring that places of worship employ staff from their respective religious communities. He emphasized that consultations with intellectuals would guide further action.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Naidu highlighted that Tirumala is the largest Hindu shrine in the world and stressed the importance of safeguarding its sanctity. "My government prioritizes preserving the sentiments of devotees and the sanctity of the Lord of the Seven Hills," he stated, urging pilgrims to follow temple traditions, Agama Sastra principles, and TTD guidelines.
The Chief Minister appealed to all devotees to respect the norms and rituals of the temple, emphasizing that "no devotee should act against the sentiments and customs of the sacred site."