Vijayawada: Kanaka Durga temple authorities have launched a drive against persons who are said to be illegally facilitating VIP darshan for devotees in exchange for hefty amounts. Security personnel have been deployed at key locations to eliminate the unauthorised activities.
The ancient temple, one of the busiest in Andhra Pradesh after Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, witnesses an average daily footfall of 20,000 devotees. Due to long queues and a hours-long wait for darshan, many devotees fall prey to brokers promising quick access. Recently, a broker identified as Srinivas was caught escorting devotees from Telangana through an unauthorised route. Following this, temple EO Ramachandra Mohan conducted a review and lodged a complaint with the police. Officials have since intensified surveillance in and around the temple premises to track down those exploiting devotees.
Some temple employees are also suspected to be involved in the scam. Evidence of money transfers through UPI to some temple staff have been detected, following which authorities are planning to file complaints with the ACB and vigilance department. With the probe intensifying, several temple employees are fearing transfers or legal action.
The temple EO has issued a stern warning that no one will be spared if found guilty. To prevent devotees from falling victim to brokers, temple authorities are making public announcements to discourage payments for VIP darshans. Security measures have also been intensified in some areas, including bus stops and railway station, to protect visiting devotees from falling prey to fraudsters.
