HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has formally requested the Andhra Pradesh government to revoke the land allotment for a private hotel project, citing concerns over potential harm to Hindu sentiments. The TTD Board, chaired by B. R. Naidu, passed the resolution during its meeting on Monday, proposing the development of a spiritual facility, ‘Devalokam,’ on the 20-acre parcel of land at Alipiri instead.
The land, initially allocated to the Tourism Department, was later handed over to a private entity for constructing the proposed ‘Mumtaz Hotel.’ The project has faced opposition from certain groups, who argue that a commercial hotel would undermine the sanctity of the pilgrimage destination.
“We have requested the Andhra Pradesh government to allot the land to TTD. If granted, we will build the ‘Devalokam’ facility there. We are now awaiting the government’s decision,” Naidu told PTI.
Highlighting the significance of Tirumala as a spiritual hub rather than a tourist destination, Naidu questioned the rationale behind encouraging tourism in a space dedicated to religious worship. He expressed concerns about the rising number of pilgrims struggling to secure darshan opportunities due to overcrowding.
Naidu also criticized the Tourism Department for allegedly profiting from ticket sales at inflated prices. Additionally, he pointed out that the state government has launched a vigilance inquiry into alleged irregularities involving the TTD during the previous YSRCP regime.
