Kurnool TDP Leader Lambasts Former TTD Chairman Over "False" Goshala Allegations
Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh – In a strongly worded condemnation, P Tikka Reddy, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president for the Kurnool parliamentary constituency, has accused former Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Chairman, Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, of disseminating false information regarding the management of TTD’s cow shelters (goshalas). Addressing the media on Thursday, Tikka Reddy alleged that Karunakar Reddy’s actions are a deliberate attempt to incite religious tensions, orchestrated with the backing of YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) chief, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. He further asserted that these baseless allegations are deeply offensive to the sentiments of millions of devotees worldwide.
Tikka Reddy’s accusations stem from recent claims made by Karunakar Reddy alleging the death of over 100 cows in the TTD goshala. Dismissing these claims as utterly unfounded, Tikka Reddy presented five years of records indicating an average monthly mortality rate of 10 cows due to age-related ailments, birthing complications, or natural causes. "In the past three months, 46 such deaths occurred, which is consistent with historical data," he clarified. He further challenged the veracity of the photographic evidence presented by Karunakar Reddy, asserting that the images were not from the TTD goshala and were deliberately misrepresented to damage the institution’s reputation.
The TDP leader emphasized the TTD administration’s commitment to the welfare of the cows under its care, highlighting the dedicated efforts of over 260 staff members responsible for tending to 2,668 cows. He contrasted this with the previous administration, claiming significant improvements in goshala facilities under the current government, including regular cleaning and disinfection protocols. Addressing the specific allegation regarding the lack of postmortem examinations, Tikka Reddy explained that this procedure is not performed on animals that die of natural causes, a standard practice in veterinary care. He also refuted claims that death records are not maintained, stating that all births and deaths within the goshala are meticulously documented and readily available for scrutiny.
Tikka Reddy went on to accuse Karunakar Reddy of deliberately inciting communal discord and defaming a revered religious institution. He called upon law enforcement authorities to initiate legal proceedings against Karunakar Reddy for his allegedly malicious and false propaganda. "Such irresponsible actions must not be tolerated," he asserted. "We urge the authorities to thoroughly investigate these statements and take appropriate legal action." This latest exchange marks another chapter in the ongoing political sparring between the TDP and the ruling YSRCP, often played out against the backdrop of sensitive religious issues.
The controversy surrounding the TTD goshalas has drawn sharp reactions from devotees and political observers alike. While the TDP has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, the YSRCP maintains its stance on the alleged mismanagement, demanding a thorough investigation into the matter. The allegations and counter-allegations have fueled a heated debate, raising concerns about the politicization of religious institutions and the potential for such actions to inflame communal sentiments.
The TTD, which manages the renowned Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala, one of the wealthiest and most visited Hindu pilgrimage sites globally, is often subject to intense public scrutiny. Its operations, including the management of its goshalas, are matters of significant public interest. The current controversy underscores the sensitive nature of religious institutions in India and the potential for political disputes to escalate into broader societal tensions. The call for a thorough investigation and transparent disclosure of information regarding the goshala operations aims to address public concerns and restore trust in the institution’s management.