In a surprising turn of events, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, president of the YSR Congress Party, has decided to postpone his planned visit to the Tirumala temple amid ongoing political tensions with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. This decision comes after Naidu raised questions about whether Reddy had submitted a faith declaration during his recent visit to the temple.
During a press conference at his camp office in Tadepalli, Reddy accused Naidu of attempting to shift focus from his administrative failures by making unfounded allegations, including claims about the use of adulterated ghee in the preparation of laddu prasadam at Tirumala. Reddy pointed out that Naidu’s attempt to capitalize on the faith declaration issue was an effort to distract the public from more pressing matters.
Reddy emphasized that his family’s long-standing devotion to Lord Venkateswara is widely recognized, noting that both his father, Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, and he himself had made multiple offerings of silk robes to the deity while serving as Chief Ministers. He asserted that despite being a frequent visitor to Tirumala over the years, the current political climate has led to unnecessary scrutiny regarding his faith.
“I hold deep love and respect for Lord Venkateswara Swamy,” Reddy stated. “However, proceeding with my visit could play into Mr. Naidu’s hands, distracting the public from his controversial claims. Therefore, I have decided to postpone my visit.”
Reddy further remarked that his true religion is humanity and expressed his belief that all religions should be treated equally outside of personal faith. He called on YSRCP supporters and the community to engage in prayers in their local towns to ensure that Naidu’s political missteps do not adversely affect the state, urging that the anger of Lord Venkateswara be directed only at Naidu.
Published – September 28, 2024 12:20 am IST
