Temple Demolition Row: Harish Rao Accuses CM Revanth Reddy of Anti-Hindu Agenda

Top Summary

• What happened: Former Minister T Harish Rao accused CM Revanth Reddy of planning to demolish Rajashyamala Temple in Kokapet.
• Why it matters: The demolition plan sparks concerns about religious sentiment and alleged political vendettas.
• What changes: BRS threatens protests if the demolition proceeds, raising political tensions.
• Who is affected: Sharada Peetham, Hindu community, and beneficiaries of the temple's food distribution programs.

Harish Rao Alleges Temple Targeted

Former Minister T Harish Rao has strongly condemned what he describes as an attempt by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy to target temples.

He claims this follows the demolition of houses belonging to the poor in Khammam.

Harish Rao specifically alleges that the Congress government is planning to demolish Sharada Peetham’s Rajashyamala Temple in Neopolis, Kokapet.

Land Sanctioned Under Previous Government

Harish Rao emphasized that the BRS government had sanctioned two acres of land for the temple's construction in 2019.

He stated that all requisite fees were paid, and the temple was duly constructed.

 

"A temple is not a mere structure. The move to demolish it is an attack on the sentiments and rights of Hindus," Harish Rao stated.

 

Police Presence and Alleged Harassment

According to Harish Rao, on Friday night, a significant police presence, along with Revenue department officials, restricted temple staff from performing pujas.

He also highlighted that the temple regularly conducts food distribution programs for the poor.

Harish Rao claims that upon his arrival at the temple, the police and Revenue officials "vanished from the spot."

Political Motivation Alleged

The former minister further alleges that Revanth Reddy's actions are politically motivated, aiming to erase the legacy of former Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao.

He vowed that the BRS would stand by the temple management and organize protests if the demolition plans are not abandoned.

Harish Rao questioned the motives behind targeting the temple land when government land is available nearby.

Mining Lease Controversy

Harish Rao also pointed to the allocation of 10 acres for a mining lease to Bhagyalakshmi Mines and Minerals, owned by the Chief Minister’s son-in-law Ramesh Reddy, directly opposite the temple.

He alleges this violates HMDA rules which prohibit mining within one kilometre of the Outer Ring Road.

He also claimed that while only 10 acres were permitted for mining, there are efforts to occupy 17 acres of land.

Demand for Intervention

Harish Rao called on Industries Minister D Sridhar Babu to intervene and scrap the demolition plans.

He claimed that the Chief Minister harbors a "grudge against the poor," citing previous demolitions in Khammam and HYDRAA.

 

"After HYDRAA demolitions in the city, poor people’s houses in Khammam, Revanth Reddy is now targeting temples. When doom approaches, the mind acts perversely," Harish Rao stated.

 

What to Watch Next

The situation remains tense as the BRS has threatened protests if the demolition plans proceed. The next steps from the state government regarding the temple and the mining lease will be crucial in determining the future course of this controversy.