Chandrababu Naidu Proposes Golden Temple Model for Tirumala Governance
Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu explores Golden Temple-style legal framework for Tirumala, triggering debate among devotees and political parties.
The Andhra Pradesh government’s proposal to introduce a new legal and administrative framework for Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams has sparked debate among devotees and political circles.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has proposed setting up a legal system and an autonomous committee on the lines of the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The move aims to protect the sanctity of Tirumala and avoid controversies related to laddu prasadam quality and appointments to the governing council.
The Golden Temple functions independently under the Sikh Gurudwara Act of 1925. It is managed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. Members of the SGPC are elected by the Sikh community through voting. The elections are supervised by the Central Election Commission. The committee focuses on religious affairs, facilities for devotees and social service activities.
Officials said the Andhra Pradesh government is consulting experts to examine whether a similar election process and selection of experienced spiritual leaders can be introduced for Tirumala.
At present, the TTD chairman and members are appointed directly by the state government under existing laws. Critics have alleged that political considerations influence these appointments. The proposed system seeks to reduce political involvement and ensure that individuals with spiritual commitment serve on the board.
The government is also examining provisions to ensure that temple funds are used exclusively for religious, educational and charitable purposes. Under the Golden Temple model, funds are restricted to education, medical services and religious activities. Similar safeguards are being considered for Tirumala to ensure that donations and income are used only for temple development and the propagation of Hindu Dharma.
However, legal experts note that implementing such a system may face challenges. The Golden Temple is administered by an elected body representing a single religious community. In contrast, TTD functions under the state endowments department. Any structural change would require legal amendments and careful consideration of constitutional and administrative issues.
Officials said discussions are at a preliminary stage. If implemented, the model could influence the governance structure of other major Hindu temples in the country.