TTD's white paper debunks charges over Srivani Trust

TIRUPATI: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) on Friday released a white paper to refute political leaders’ allegations against misuse of funds belonging to Sri Venkateswara Alaya Nirmana (Srivani) Trust.

Releasing details of donations received by Srivani Trust and funds spent by it, TTD Trust Board chairman Y.V. Subba Reddy maintained that the allegations are only to score political brownie points.

Devasthanams’ executive officer A.V. Dharma Reddy pointed out that when some Peethadhipathis and VHP leaders raised concerns about Srivani trust funds, TTD provided them all relevant documents and details of bank account and balance. They then expressed satisfaction that the trust funds had been used in a proper manner.

Dharma Reddy stressed the importance of verifying facts before making any allegations, as it involves the sentiments of millions of devotees. He declared that legal action could be taken against those spreading false accusations.

According to the TTD chairman, Srivani Trust collects donations both online and offline. Funds received are invested as fixed deposits (FDs) in banks. The interest received from them is spent on meeting the trust’s objectives.

Subba Reddy explained: “As of May 31, 2023, Srivani Trust received from devotees ₹862.9 crore as donations, (₹475.57 crores online, ₹350.82 offline and ₹36.51 interest accrued from FDs). The trust sanctioned ₹93 crores for the restoration of 176 endowments and private temples. Additionally, TTD resolved to construct 2,273 temples in backward areas, allocating ₹10 lahks to each temple. 1,953 of these temples are looked after by AP Endowments Department, while 320 temples are under the jurisdiction of Samarasata Seva Foundation.”

The TTD chairman maintained that they have always ensured transparency in administration, citing previous release of white papers on TTD properties, gold deposits, fixed deposits, and now regarding Srivani Trust funds.

Subba Reddy reassured devotees that all doubts regarding Srivani Trust could be clarified. He urged them not to get swayed by baseless allegations made by vested interests.