“Is This Not an Insult to Temples?”: Satti Suryanarayana Reddy

Former MLA Dr. Satti Suryanarayana Reddy strongly criticised the Coalition government and local MLA Nallamilli Ramakrishna Reddy for their alleged attitude towards Hindu temples in the constituency , stating that government decisions were hurting the sentiments of devotees .

He expressed anger over the last-minute obstruction of the idol consecration at a temple in Kothuru village , which was constructed by a devotee at his own expense of around ₹20 lakh . Dr. Suryanarayana Reddy questioned the imposition of Section 144 and erection of barricades at the temple premises, stating that sending back the idols caused immense emotional distress to devotees .

Raising serious allegations, he accused those in power of treating temple funds like business capital . Referring to the Kutukuluru Abhayanjaneya Swamy temple , he alleged that around ₹70 lakh of temple funds were kept with a TDP leader , and were returned only after YSRCP leaders raised objections. However, he pointed out that the ₹15 lakh interest amount due on the funds was not paid to the temple , calling it highly condemnable and accusing political leaders of doing business with God’s money .

He further stated that the fencing installed by the government near the Anaparthi Vishnu temple had deprived devotees of even basic parking facilities , creating major inconvenience for worship and movement of devotees . He demanded that the fencing be removed immediately .

Targeting MLA Nallamilli Ramakrishna Reddy , Dr. Suryanarayana Reddy alleged that he had won with the support of EVMs and accused him of having no fear of God . He demanded that the MLA atone for his mistakes and take immediate steps to resolve temple-related issues in the constituency .