New Delhi – The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the world-famous Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, has suspended four employees for allegedly violating the institution’s religious code of conduct by practicing a non-Hindu faith.
According to an official statement by the Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of TTD, the suspended individuals are B. Elizer (Deputy Executive Engineer, Quality Control), S. Rosi (Staff Nurse, BIRRD Hospital), M. Premavathi (Grade-I Pharmacist, BIRRD Hospital), and Dr. G. Asunta (SV Ayurvedic Pharmacy). The action followed an internal investigation and vigilance report that confirmed the employees were not adhering to the required spiritual ethos.
“The employees acted irresponsibly while performing duties in a Hindu religious organisation,” said the CPRO in the statement. “Departmental action was taken against them as per the rules, and the four employees were immediately suspended.”
TTD enforces a strict religious code for its employees, particularly those working in and around sacred precincts. The policy mandates that all staff must follow the Hindu faith in conduct and belief, given the religious nature of the institution.
The suspensions have sparked a wider conversation on the balance between religious freedom and institutional regulations—especially in publicly administered religious bodies.
The issue also gained political attention earlier this month when Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, raised concerns about non-Hindu employees within TTD. “Why are 1,000+ non-Hindus still working in TTD? Would Hindus ever be hired in mosques or churches? This isn’t about hate — it’s about dharma,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter) on July 11.
While TTD has made no further official comment, insiders suggest that upholding the institution’s spiritual and religious integrity remains non-negotiable for continued employment within the organisation. (Source: IANS)
