Outrage As Santa’s Hat Found on Annamacharya Statue in Tirupati

Tirupati: Religious leaders and citizens of Tirupati city have expressed outrage after finding a Santa Claus cap on the statue of Annamacharya at Rayala Cheruvu Road Circle on Tuesday morning.

Concerned citizens immediately removed it. But by then speculations started that deliberate attempts are being made to disturb the communal harmony in the sacred city, ahead of the Christmas and New Year festivities.

Rayala Cheruvu Road is a bustling area with heavy footfalls daily. Many have taken an affront that a hat has been put on the statue of the revered saint-composer closely associated with the Tirumala temple.

Political and religious leaders have called for strict action against the person/persons who has/have committed the sacrilegious act. Former TTD chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy said it is imperative to investigate thoroughly and punish the guilty.”

BJP spokesperson Samanchi Srinivas wanted CCTV footage of the area to be examined to identify the culprits. “Strict action must be taken. Leaders from other faiths should join in condemning such actions aimed at creating discord,” he underlined.

CPM leader Kandarapu Murali suspects the act is a possible conspiracy to incite religious unrest. “The culprits must face severe punishment to send a clear message that such acts will not be tolerated,” he stated.

Tirupati police are reviewing the CCTV footage before undertaking further investigation.