Irregularities at city temple; EO suspended

Hyderabad: The executive officer of Chikkadpalli Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple was suspended following a surprise inspection on Monday morning by the endowments department, uncovering widespread irregularities in the temple's management and functioning. EO K Ramamjaneyulu was suspended by endowments department commissioner Hanumantha Rao in the early morning inspection. The department found serious lack of accountability in management of jewellery, gold, and silver ornaments donated to the temple. A 2.3 kg silver crown donated by a devotee was not properly receipted and, although it was given to a goldsmith for modification, it had not been retrieved even after four years. When the donor sought clarification, the response given was that no receipt had been issued and, therefore, no responsibility was acknowledged.Also jewellery appraisals were not conducted annually as required, registers were not maintained properly, and biometric system was not used.Offerings to devoteesThe commissioner also found that daily offerings to devotees were below the stated weight. Pulihora was found to be 170gm instead of 200gm, and laddus were 76gm instead of 80gm.Rental income, described as a key source of revenue for the temple, was not being monitored, and there was little interest in collecting millions of rupees owed to the temple, affecting the endowments department's income. Besides this, the premises was also found to lack a clean environment. The inspection noted there was no control over sanitation or supervision of other officials' duties. The commissioner ordered immediate suspension of the EO and said negligence in duties would not be tolerated and those responsible would face consequences.Sanctum sanctorum in poor conditionThe department has recommended digitalisation of services including ticketing and avoiding use of registers. The endowments department also found that the sanctum sanctorum was in poor condition. Repairs will now be undertaken after the Brahmotsavam festivities.