Non-Hindu Staff: New TTD Board Charts Course to End Row

Tirupati: In a widely welcomed move, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams is edging closer to resolving its decades-old issue of the presence of non-Hindu employees in its fold. GO 746 completely banned non-Hindu activities within the seven hills of Tirumala, while GO 747 allowed filing of criminal cases and termination of services of employees engaging in activities “contrary to Hindu beliefs.” “Tirumala hill town was once a symbol of religious tolerance. In August 2019, then chief secretary LV Subrahmanyam issued a directive, saying TTD employees following non-Hindu practices must limit their religious activities to their homes. - Aims to address religious sensitivities while ensuring a fair deal to long-serving staff Historical Context: - Tirumala once symbolized religious harmony under non-Hindu royal dynasties and British rule - Concerns expressed in the mid-1980s about non-Hindu propaganda prompted stricter policies Government Orders : - GO 1060 : Prohibited non-Hindu activities in Tirumala; mandated disciplinary action against violators - GO 746 : Banned all non-Hindu activities within Tirumala’s sacred seven hills - GO 747 : Allowed criminal prosecution and termination of services of employees engaging in activities contrary to Hindu beliefs Challenges Ahead: - Smooth implementation of the resolution without hurdles - How the court would respond to emerging situations