18 Non -Hindu staffers in Tirupati fired for violating ‘Hindu tradition’.

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Sacks 18 Employees for Violating Hindu Tradition Policy.

B Upendran | HENB | Amaravati | Feb 6, 2025:: The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has taken strict action against 18 employees for violating its policy requiring staff to follow Hindu traditions. Apparently, these employees participated in non-Hindu religious traditions while also taking part in Temple festivals and rituals, which went against the TTD’s rules.

TTD has given these employees two options: they can either opt for a transfer to a government department or apply for the Voluntary Retirement Scheme. This move is seen as a measure to maintain the temple’s traditions and cultural integrity.

As a result, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has dismissed 18 employees for allegedly violating the trust’s rule requiring staff to follow Hindu traditions ¹. This move is in line with the TTD’s stance, reiterated by Chairman BR Naidu, that only Hindu employees are permitted to work at TTD temples and affiliated departments.

The decision is backed by the 1989 Endowment Act, which mandates that all TTD employees adhere to Hindu customs. Naidu emphasized the importance of maintaining the sanctity of Tirumala and upholding the Hindu faith. The TTD Act has been amended three times to stipulate that only Hindus should be employed by the temple board and its institutions.

Interestingly, this decision is also supported by Article 16(5) of the Constitution, which allows institutions of a religious or denominational nature to employ members of their own religion. Additionally, Rule 3 of the AP Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments Subordinate Service Rules states that employees of religious institutions must profess the Hindu faith.

It’s worth noting that around 300 non-Hindu employees, out of the total 7,000 permanent employees and 14,000 contract workers, come under of this policy. BJP leader and TTD Board member Bhanu Prakash Reddy has publicly supported the move, stating that he is prepared to see non-Hindu employees leave if necessary.

..
__Inputs from Agencies.