Top

Tirupati: Instability at Kanipakam Temple with 3rd EO change in 4 months

Tirupati:Administrative turmoil is gripping Swayambhu Sri Varasiddi Vinayaka Swamy Temple, a revered spiritual centre at Kanipakam in Chittoor district, with the Endowments department appointing the third executive officer (EO) at the shrine within a period of four months. This has affected administration stability at the temple. Allegations of political interference have only fuelled the controversy.

Instability within the temple leadership began soon after the TD-led NDA government assumed office in the state. It started with the removal of executive officer A. Venkatesu, who had served as the EO for over three years. As an interim measure, Deputy executive officer K. Vani took charge. Shortly thereafter, Endowments department appointed P. Guruprasad as the executive officer. Before he could take up any significant initiatives, he got replaced by deputy collector K. Penchala Kishore as the new EO.

A senior Endowments official, requesting anonymity, observed, “Frequent changes at the top disrupt administrative continuity and ongoing projects, disrupting the temple’s long-term growth.”

Local leaders have criticised such repeated transfers. They allege political motivations are driving the transfers, rather than administrative necessity. They say the latest appointment has been made without consulting the local Puthalapattu MLA.

“State government should prioritise stability over political expediency,” remarked a leader.

Concerns have been raised over bringing in revenue department officials into temple administration, citing historical instances of mismanagement and corruption. Penchal Kishore’s previous actions as Visakhapatnam RDO—particularly the controversial order to demolish the compound wall of GITAM College without prior notice—have raised questions about his suitability for the role.

General public and devotees have noticed the frequent changes. Social media platforms are abuzz with debates over the rationale behind the transfers. Many have questioned the government’s intentions. Supporters of outgoing EO Guruprasad have highlighted his initiatives to stabilise the temple’s operations.

Devotees are now awaiting the latest executive officer’s approach to addressing the temple’s existing challenges, including administrative consistency, coordination with local NDA leaders, and fostering the temple’s development.


( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
Next Story