TTD Clarifies Tirumala Land Exchange: A Move to Preserve Sanctity and Serve Devotees
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has officially addressed public concerns surrounding a recent land exchange with the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department, emphasizing that the transaction was carried out with the sole intention of safeguarding the sanctity of Tirumala and enhancing facilities for pilgrims.
Background: Controversy Over Sacred Land
The issue traces back to November 24, 2021, when the Tourism Department allotted 20 acres of sacred land at the foothills of Tirumala to the Oberoi Hotel. The move sparked widespread objections from devotees and religious groups, who feared commercialization of a spiritually significant zone.
Timeline of Key Events and Resolutions
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Nov 24, 2021 | Tourism Dept. allots sacred land to Oberoi Hotel |
| Nov 18, 2024 | TTD passes Resolution No. 102 urging government to transfer land to TTD |
| Mar 21, 2025 | CM Chandrababu Naidu assures no unauthorized activity will be allowed |
| May 7, 2025 | TTD consents to land exchange via Resolution No. 250 |
| July 22, 2025 | Final approval granted through Resolution No. 385 |
The Exchange: What Changed Hands
- TTD received the north-side sacred land, previously earmarked for hotel development.
- Tourism Department received land on the south side of the road, where construction had already begun.
- The exchange was mutually agreed upon to ensure that no commercial activity would disturb the spiritual atmosphere of Tirumala.
Purpose and Future Plans
TTD clarified that the primary goal of the exchange was to:
- Preserve the sanctity of the Tirumala foothills.
- Prevent commercial encroachment near the pilgrimage zone.
- Develop facilities for devotees on the newly acquired sacred land.
The land on the south side, now under the Tourism Department, had already seen infrastructure development, making it a more suitable location for tourism-related activities.
TTD’s Stand Against Allegations
In its official statement, TTD asserted that the allegations against the land exchange are baseless and misleading. The board emphasized that every step was taken transparently, with resolutions passed in accordance with public interest and religious sentiment.
This resolution marks a significant step in balancing development with devotion, ensuring that Tirumala remains a sacred haven for millions of pilgrims while accommodating the region’s infrastructural needs.
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