In a significant move to uphold the sanctity of Hindu religious traditions within its institutions, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has suspended four non-Hindu employees after an internal investigation revealed violations of its code of conduct.
According to an official statement on July 19, the suspended employees were identified as B. Elizer, Deputy Executive Engineer (Quality Control); S. Rosi, Staff Nurse at BIRD Hospital; M. Premavathi, Grade-1 Pharmacist at BIRD Hospital; and Dr. G. Asunta, associated with the SV Ayurvedic Pharmacy.
The inquiry, initiated following a vigilance report, found that the individuals were reportedly practicing Christianity while holding posts within the TTD system—an act that goes against institutional norms, which mandate adherence to Hindu faith and practices for those employed in religious and temple-related roles.
TTD suspends 4 employees for allegedly following a non-Hindu faith, citing violation of institutional code.
Following vigilance reports and internal probe, action was taken for failing to uphold duties in a Hindu religious institution.#TTD #Tirumala pic.twitter.com/4RTYTWH4n3
— Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (@TTDevasthanams) July 19, 2025
TTD officials stated that the disciplinary action was taken in accordance with established rules and based on supporting evidence provided during the internal probe. The employees have been placed under immediate suspension.
TTD, one of the wealthiest and most visited institution, has long maintained strict guidelines requiring its staff to respect and uphold the traditions and practices of Sanatana Dharma, given the religious significance of its temples and services.
Speaking to Organiser, TTD Board Member Bhanu Prakash stated, “Non-Hindus, particularly crypto-Christians, must show respect to the deity in whose service they are employed. The suspension is based on clear and strong evidence, including reports of regular church attendance and the discreet circulation of non-Hindu literature. Worse still, they show no reverence for the sacred institution of TTD where they work. It is up to them to make a choice — either Bhagwan Venkateshwarlu or Yesu.”
He further revealed that this is just the beginning: “There is a list of such individuals currently employed, and the Board is preparing to act in a phased manner,” he said.
In the wake of the adulterated laddu controversy in 2024 and following the formation of the new coalition government under Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu in Andhra Pradesh, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has initiated a series of corrective measures to restore the sanctity and discipline within its institutions.
