Newly appointed Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Chairman B.R. Naidu has stated that all employees working in Tirumala, the residence of Lord Venkateswara, should be Hindu. Speaking to the media on Thursday, Naidu expressed his intention to discuss with Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu, whether non-Hindu employees should be offered transfers to other government departments or voluntary retirement. This is Naidu's first major step as TTD Chairman, aimed at maintaining the sanctity of the temple.

Concerns Over Temple Sanctity

Naidu, a devoted follower of Lord Venkateswara, expressed gratitude for the responsibility of chairing the TTD Board. He emphasized his commitment to preserving the purity of Tirumala. Naidu also criticized the previous government, led by Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, for alleged irregularities within the temple administration, including controversies surrounding the quality of ingredients used in the temple’s famous laddu prasadam.

Laddu Controversy and Political Reactions

Previously, allegations surfaced that animal fats were used in the laddu preparation during Reddy’s tenure, prompting an investigation by a court-monitored SIT involving the CBI. In response, former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy argued that the controversy was politically motivated, asserting that faith and politics should remain separate.

Naidu’s recent remarks reflect his resolve to ensure that the temple's staff aligns with the religious atmosphere of Tirumala, potentially stirring further debate over religious representation within the temple’s workforce.