Temple EO suspended after being caught stealing Goddess’ ornaments

A shocking incident in Erradoddi village of Kadiri Rural mandal has exposed how those entrusted with protecting temple properties sometimes end up misusing that very responsibility.

Murali Krishna, the Executive Officer (EO) of the Gangamma Temple in Erradoddi, was suspended after being caught allegedly transporting valuable temple ornaments and other items without authorization.

According to villagers, around 11 a.m. on Sunday, the EO loaded silver ornaments used for decorating the deity, about 15 sarees, and several other temple belongings into an auto-rickshaw. Noticing this suspicious movement, locals stopped him and questioned his actions. Murali Krishna reportedly claimed he was taking the items to deposit in a bank locker. However, villagers did not believe his explanation and immediately alerted the police.

Kadiri police reached the spot, intercepted the vehicle, and recovered nearly 5 kg of silver ornaments, 15 sarees , and other temple articles. The seized items were later handed over to officials of the Endowments Department.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed strong displeasure over the incident, stating that any act that violates the sanctity of temples and betrays devotees’ trust will be dealt with severely. Acting on the CM’s directions, senior Endowments officials suspended the EO and instructed police to register a case.

To ensure proper supervision, additional monitoring responsibilities have been given to the Hindupur division inspector, and the Deputy Commissioner has been directed to tighten temple asset security to prevent such incidents in the future.

Kadiri DSP Shivanarayana Swami told reporters that a case has been registered against the EO under IPC Section 316 for unauthorized theft of temple ornaments. “The investigation is underway, and he will be produced before the court for remand today,” he said.

The incident has triggered anger among devotees, who are demanding stricter security measures and firm action to ensure temple properties remain safe.