Vijayawada: Expressing anguish over the Tirupati stampede and holding the coalition government responsible for the loss of lives, YSRC leaders said the sanctity of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has been spoiled with political interference.
In separate press conferences held at various locations, former ministers R.K. Roja and Ambati Rambabu, Alur MLA Busineni Virupakshi and former LIDCAP chairman Kakumanu Rajashekar held the ruling coalition government, TTD officials and key figures accountable for the administrative lapses leading to the tragedy.
Roja has criticised the government’s negligence in managing the massive influx of devotees despite prior knowledge of the crowd size. She accused the officials of failing to ensure adequate safety measures, terming the incident a clear case of criminal negligence. Roja demanded a transparent investigation and filing of cases under BNS-105, which addresses criminal liability. She demanded compensation of Rs 1 crore for each deceased family and Rs 25 lakh for the injured. She also demanded the resignation of officials responsible for the incident, including TTD chairman B.R. Naidu. Roja highlighted the lack of basic amenities, such as food and water, for devotees standing in long queues and accused the officials of prioritising political events over public safety.
The Alur MLA has expressed deep anguish over the incident and condemned the TTD leadership for turning temple administration into a political stage. He demanded accountability from Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan and the TTD chairman. “Who will take moral responsibility for these deaths?" he questioned, calling for immediate resignations and remedial measures.
Virupakshi criticised Pawan Kalyan for his silence on the issue and asked the coalition government to prioritise public welfare over political interests.
Rambabu echoed similar sentiments, blaming the ruling coalition for misgovernance and political exploitation of temple affairs. Rambabu accused Chief Minister Naidu of shielding TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu who was appointed for political loyalty rather than merit. He criticised the TTD chairman for focusing on political attacks against Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy instead of fulfilling his duties. He called for an impartial inquiry and strict action against those responsible for the stampede. Rambabu also criticised the Tirupati SP for focusing on framing false cases against YSRC leaders rather than ensuring public safety.
The YSRC leaders collectively condemned the politicisation of the TTD and demanded urgent reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future.
They reiterated their commitment to fighting for justice and ensuring that the sanctity of Tirupati is upheld.
