Tirupati Temple Suspends 4 Staff for Violating Hindu-Only Employment Policy
Tirupati Temple Suspends Four Employees Over Faith Violation
In a significant move, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) suspended four employees for not adhering to the Hindu faith. The TTD governs the famous Sri Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh’s Tirumala. This action comes after an internal inquiry by the Vigilance Department confirmed that the employees were practicing religions other than Hinduism.
As per TTD rules, only practicing Hindus can work in departments directly connected to the temple. The institution reinforced this policy in 2007, mandating that employees must follow Hindu tenets in both belief and behavior.
Action Taken After Vigilance Report
A press release from the TTD Chief Public Relations Officer confirmed the suspensions. The statement read, “After examining the Vigilance Department report, action was taken as per the rules. The four employees were immediately suspended.”
The report identified that the individuals violated the organization’s core policy, which restricts non-Hindus from working in temple-related roles.
Board to Transfer or Retire Non-Hindu Employees
TTD Board Chairman B R Naidu held a meeting to discuss further measures. The Board decided to either transfer non-Hindu employees to other government departments or allow them to opt for voluntary retirement (VRS). These employees will not be allowed to participate in any temple-related religious activity.
This is not the first such action. In February 2025, the Board had acted against 18 employees for allegedly practicing other religions. They were barred from temple duties and transferred to unrelated posts.
In July 2025, an Assistant Executive Officer (AEO) was suspended immediately after allegations surfaced that he was following another religion in his hometown within Tirupati district.
BJP Member Supports Strict Action
TTD Board member and BJP leader Bhanu Prakash backed the suspension decision. He accused the employees of benefiting from temple resources while not being faithful to Hinduism. “Our fight will go on until all non-Hindu staff are removed from temple duties,” he added.
TTD’s policy remains firm on the matter. Any breach of religious practice by its employees is considered serious and leads to immediate disciplinary measures.
TTD’s Code of Conduct and Religious Expectations
The TTD manages the world-renowned Tirupati Balaji Temple. It has a strict code of conduct that aligns with Hindu religious sentiments. Employees take an oath to uphold and practice Hinduism when they join. The rule is considered vital due to the spiritual sanctity of the temple and the sentiments of millions of devotees.
This regulation has been the subject of periodic public debate. However, TTD continues to maintain it to preserve the temple’s religious environment.