MLA Anirudh Reddy Slams TTD for Rejecting Telangana Recommendation Letters
Criticism Over Discriminatory Policy
Jadcherla MLA Janampally Anirudh Reddy has strongly criticized the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) for allegedly rejecting recommendation letters from Telangana public representatives. These letters are typically used to facilitate darshan and accommodations for devotees visiting Tirumala.
Speaking to the media, Reddy expressed his disapproval of what he called a discriminatory policy. He argued that such a decision could not have been made without the knowledge and approval of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.
Questioning Andhra CM’s Stance
Reddy questioned how AP CM Chandrababu Naidu, who once likened Andhra and Telangana to “his two eyes,” could allow such a biased policy. He called the move an insult not only to Telangana’s public representatives but also to the people of the state.
Change in Long-Standing Practices
The MLA pointed out that, in the past, recommendation letters from both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh leaders were treated equally by TTD. These letters helped devotees secure services like darshan and accommodations. However, he claimed that this practice has changed recently, with TTD reportedly invalidating letters from Telangana leaders.
No Progress Despite Assurances
Reddy explained that the issue first came to light during one of his visits to Tirumala, where he raised concerns about the policy. Following this, an Andhra minister visiting Telangana assured him that the matter would be resolved once a new TTD board was formed. Despite these assurances, Reddy noted that no progress has been made since the board’s formation.
Call for Equal Treatment
In his statement, Reddy urged TTD to reconsider its decision and treat recommendation letters from Telangana public representatives with equal respect. He emphasized that the decision to reject Telangana letters appeared to be a policy directive, which he believed could not have been implemented without the Chief Minister’s approval.
Significant Contributions from Telangana Devotees
Reddy also highlighted the contributions of Telangana devotees to TTD’s revenue, stating that a majority of visitors to Tirumala come from Telangana. Denying Telangana representatives the same privileges as their Andhra counterparts, he argued, was unjust.
He called on AP CM Chandrababu Naidu to intervene immediately and reverse the decision, ensuring fairness for Telangana devotees and their representatives.
