The influence of former YSRCP ministers in Tirumala remains strong, despite the coalition government being in power for four months. Officials appear to still favor YSRCP leaders, as evidenced by the red carpet treatment received by former minister Botsa during his visits to Tirumala. This preferential treatment has caught the attention of the Chief Minister, who is now addressing the negligence exhibited by key TTD officials. As a result, the ongoing favoritism towards YSRCP representatives is causing unrest among coalition leaders.
A new controversy has emerged in Tirumala regarding darshan regulations. Currently, a minister can recommend darshan for a maximum of 12 individuals. However, based on a letter from Botsa, an exceptional 26 individuals were granted darshan on the same day. This situation has prompted coalition leaders to raise their concerns with the Chief Minister.
In a recent meeting, Chandrababu Naidu spoke with TDP MLAs, who requested an increase in their darshan quota at Tirumala. They pointed out that they are currently allowed to visit only five days a week. In response, the Chief Minister has directed TTD to expand the darshan quota for MLAs, aiming to accommodate their requests.
The Chief Minister has also instructed officials to carefully review the MLAs’ requests. Meanwhile, the preferential treatment granted to Botsa Satyanarayana, the former minister and current opposition leader in the legislative council, has drawn scrutiny. Last week, based on Botsa’s recommendation letter, a remarkable 26 individuals were granted darshan on the same day. CMO officials have expressed their frustration to the Chief Minister, questioning how multiple tickets could be issued in violation of TTD regulations.
The Chief Minister has firmly warned TTD officials that such incidents must not recur. One notable official in TTD, who previously served as Principal Secretary in Botsa’s department during the YSRCP administration, has recently been appointed to a crucial position by Chandrababu Naidu. Due to this connection, he prioritized Botsa’s requests, granting darshan to all individuals listed in the letter. Coalition leaders are increasingly concerned that similar issues persist, as many officials still closely associated with YSRCP leaders hold key positions across various departments, including TTD.
This ongoing situation highlights the need for transparency and fair treatment in the management of darshan privileges in Tirumala, ensuring that all leaders are given equal opportunities.