TTD Mandates Hindu-Only Staff: Legal and Social Impact
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the iconic Tirumala Venkateswara temple, has introduced a directive requiring non-Hindu employees to retire voluntarily or transfer. This decision aligns with Article 16(5) of the Constitution and the Andhra Pradesh Endowments Act. According to TTD chairman BR Naidu, the rule ensures that the temple’s workforce reflects its religious ethos.
Legal Foundations and Recent Amendments
Historically, the Andhra Pradesh Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions Rules, especially Rule 3, mandated that employees in religious roles must be Hindu. The Andhra Pradesh High Court recently upheld this rule, solidifying the TTD’s authority. Additionally, the TTD Act has undergone amendments since 1989 to further restrict non-Hindu appointments.
Impact on the Workforce
The directive could affect approximately 300 of TTD’s 7,000 permanent employees. However, temporary staff, totaling about 14,000, are not currently included in the policy. Employee unions have expressed support, stating that it reinforces the temple’s sanctity. Despite this, some workers question the timing and fairness of the decision.
Controversies and Political Context
The move comes after allegations against the previous administration, including claims of using non-vegetarian ghee in the iconic Tirupati laddu. Furthermore, complaints from Hindu employees about non-Hindu colleagues have been cited as a trigger for the decision. These developments highlight the ongoing effort to address long-standing grievances.
Mixed Reactions to the Rule
While many see the decision as a step toward preserving religious traditions, others argue it could alienate employees of different faiths. The debate highlights the challenge of balancing the preservation of institutional values with the protection of individual rights.
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