BJP Raises Concerns Over Demolition of Paruveta Mandapam

Tirupati: The controversy surrounding the demolition of Tirumala's Paruveta Mandapam has taken a turn, with BJP leaders serving a legal notice on Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), raising concerns and objections to the demolition of this ancient structure in the name of renovation.

BJP state spokesperson G. Bhanuprakash Reddy told the media on Monday that the party had formally served a legal notice on the TTD, seeking an explanation from the TTD executive officer regarding the removal of the 600-year-old Paruveta Mandapam, a structure of great historical and archaeological significance.

According to BJP leaders, in the legal notice placed on TTD, the party's counsel K. Ajay Kumar also mentioned the demolition of the 1000-pillar Mandapam, built by Saluva Malla Devaraya in 1464, which occurred two decades ago without consulting the department of archaeology and museums. The lawyer stated that the destruction looked to be in blatant violation of many legislative provisions, especially Act 24 of 1958 and its later changes, AP Act 7 of 1960, and the modified Act of 2010.

"These acts require the government to protect any building or monument that is more than 75 years old." The demolition of Paruveta Mandapam breached existing rules that safeguard ancient sites, said Bhanu Prakash. He stated that the demolition of this historic monument had greatly hurt the Hindu community's sensibilities.

The saffron party leader further stated that the party intends to file a formal complaint with the Union Ministry of Culture via its State headquarters, requesting appropriate action and recompense for the demolition of Paruveta Mandapam.