The AP government has made a historic decision by implementing another commitment from its election manifesto. It has issued orders that grant autonomy to temples, effectively eliminating political and administrative meddling in their affairs. Each temple will form a Vedic committee, which will hold the ultimate authority over rituals and services. The government has stated that the Commissioner of the temple department will have no control over temple traditions and practices, ensuring that all activities are conducted in accordance with Vedic and Agama scriptures.
The alliance government has rolled out another significant decision, issuing orders to grant independence to temples throughout the state. The government has specified that officials from the Endowments Department and temple executive officers will no longer have the authority to interfere in temple customs, Agama, and Vedic practices. According to the new regulations, each temple is required to establish a Vedic committee. All recommendations and directives from this committee must be followed by officials, including the Commissioner.
New services in temples, decisions regarding associated fees, auspicious dates for Kalyanotsavams, yajnas, kumbhabhishekas, and the introduction of new poojas should be guided by the Vedic committee or the chief priests of the temple. Specifically, executive officers in six major temples must promptly establish Vedic committees. If differing opinions arise within the committee, they should consult the heads of the relevant Agamas for guidance. The government has stipulated that no temple executive officers are allowed to interfere in matters related to rituals, services, or the determination of auspicious timings.