Sharmila Touches Holy TTD: Backfires!

The Tirumala temple is one of the most revered places of worship for Hindus, yet political controversies often surround it. This time, Andhra Pradesh Congress president Sharmila’s remarks dragged the temple into the political spotlight and triggered a storm.

Recently, TTD announced that it would construct 5,000 temples in Dalit colonies across Andhra Pradesh. These temples are to be built with SRIVANI Trust funds, a scheme that collects voluntary donations from devotees. Importantly, this decision has nothing to do with the state government.

However, while commenting on the issue, Sharmila said, “Why spend so much money on temples? The chief minister must focus on building social infrastructure, laying roads and providing other amenities instead.” Her remarks directly targeted the state government, even though the initiative was entirely under TTD’s purview.

This misplaced attack has not gone well, even within her own party. Congress leaders in Andhra Pradesh are reportedly upset, as they believe her criticism was baseless and avoidable. Media reports suggest senior leaders pulled up Sharmila in a party meeting and advised her to refrain from making personal comments on sensitive religious matters.

For Congress, which is trying to regain ground as YSR Congress weakens after its 2024 defeat, such controversies are proving counterproductive. At a time when the party wants to consolidate its position, Sharmila’s remarks on a non-government issue have sparked unnecessary trouble.