Tension erupted in Kadapa district’s Proddatur area after forest officials demolished the Varahi Ammavari temple, sparking strong protests from residents and Hindu organisations. The incident occurred in the Penna River catchment area, where officials used a JCB to remove the temple structure, stating that it stood on forest land.
Local devotees noticed the demolition and rushed to the spot. As a result, anger spread quickly among villagers. Many questioned why officials acted late at night. They said the sudden move hurt religious sentiments and created unrest in the area.
MLA assures support for new temple
Proddatur MLA Varadarajulu Reddy visited the demolition site along with TDP and BJP leaders. He examined the location and spoke to residents. While admitting that the temple stood on forest land, the MLA said officials should not have demolished a Hindu temple during night hours. He called the move improper and insensitive.
The MLA assured devotees that he would extend full support to construct a new Varahi Ammavari temple at the same place. He also promised to raise the issue with higher authorities and seek a fair solution.
Hindu organisations stage a road protest
Meanwhile, Hindu groups staged a sit-in protest on the Erraguntla main road. Protesters demanded action against the officials involved in the demolition. They raised slogans and blocked traffic for some time, which led to inconvenience for commuters.
The incident has triggered a wider debate in the Proddatur region. Locals now urge the administration to act with care while enforcing land rules, especially in matters linked to religious faith.
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