A wave of tension has swept through Telangana’s temple administration after Endowments Commissioner Hanumantha Rao began a series of unannounced early-morning inspections at temples across the state.
Officials say the Commissioner has been arriving at different temples as early as 7 AM, catching staff off guard and triggering anxiety among Executive Officers (EOs) and employees over possible disciplinary action, missing records, and financial irregularities.
The surprise inspections come just a week after a major controversy at Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, where a 1.5 kg silver crown went missing and multiple irregularities were reportedly detected. Following that inspection, EO Ramanjaneyulu was suspended on the spot.
Early Morning Shock at Secunderabad Temple
In the latest inspection, the Commissioner visited Sri Santoshi Mata Temple at 7 AM on Saturday.
With the EO absent, officials present at the temple were reportedly startled when the Commissioner identified and questioned the junior assistant in charge. Sources said the staff struggled to answer a series of rapid questions during the inspection.
Registers, Donations, Jewellery Records Under Scanner
During the visit, the Commissioner reviewed whether the temple was properly maintaining all 16 mandatory registers, including:
• Gold and silver ornaments records
• Donation receipt registers
• Administrative records
• Lease and shop records
He also examined complaints that a devotee who had donated gold and silver ornaments seven years ago had still not received an official receipt.
Commissioner Angry Over Contaminated Akshintalu
The Commissioner reportedly expressed serious displeasure after noticing insects and ants in the temple’s sacred akshintalu (blessed rice used for devotees).
He questioned priests and staff over the lapse and warned that such negligence should never be repeated.
Temple Shop Leases Also Under Probe
Irregularities were also found in temple-owned commercial properties. Of the temple’s 14 shops, some tenants had pending dues worth lakhs of rupees but were still granted renewals, officials said.
The Commissioner also questioned why four shops remained vacant.
Probe Ordered, More Surprise Checks Ahead
A detailed inquiry has now been ordered, with Assistant Commissioner Krishna appointed to submit a report.
The Commissioner made it clear that strict action would follow if violations are confirmed and said these surprise inspections will continue across Telangana.
