Andhra HC prohibits commercial use of temple lands

The Andhra Pradesh High Court has intervened in a land dispute, issuing a significant order that prohibits the use of endowment lands belonging to the Godugupeta Venkateswara Swamy Temple for commercial activities. The ruling was made during a hearing on a petition challenging the organization of the 'Vijayawada Utsav' on these temple lands, which are located in Gollapudi near Vijayawada.

The court raised serious questions about the legality of using agricultural land, which is classified as temple property, for non-agricultural purposes. Justice Ramakrishna Prasad, who presided over the case, demanded an explanation for why the land was being converted for an exhibition and other commercial events.

In a direct order, the High Court instructed the immediate removal of all materials, including gravel, soil, and debris, that had been moved onto the property. The court further mandated that the land must be restored to its original, agricultural condition without delay.

The court’s ruling comes despite a prior arrangement between the Endowment Department and the event organizers. The department had granted a 56-day lease for the land to the 'Vijayawada Utsav' organizers, who had already paid the lease fee to the Godugupeta temple. The High Court's decision essentially overrides this agreement, reinforcing the principle that temple lands must be used for their intended purpose and not for commercial gain.