A priest was barred from performing duties and two security guards at the Tiruchendur Subramania Swamy Temple were suspended after they allegedly demanded a bribe of ₹1,000 from an aide of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Minister S. Ramesh, who was posing as a devotee. A police complaint has been lodged against the accused individuals.
Incident Details
Acting on complaints of irregularities, Minister Ramesh arrived at the temple wearing a mask and conducted a surprise inspection on Friday morning. At the gopuram entrance, the priest and guards allegedly sought ₹1,000 for direct ‘special VIP’ darshan, bypassing the regular queue.
Following the incident, explanations were sought from those involved: A. Ayyapan (priest), K. Karuppasamy and A. Thoppu (two ex-servicemen deployed as guards by TEXCO). Reports initially claimed they were let off with an apology, but Minister Ramesh rejected this allegation, stating that the findings would be submitted to the Chief Minister and further action would follow. “There will be no discrimination, no divisions and no soft corner. If anyone has committed a mistake, action will certainly be taken,” he said.
Criticism and Response
The action against Ayyappan drew criticism from some quarters, which alleged that the priest had been treated leniently because both he and Minister Ramesh belong to the Brahmin community, unlike others who faced suspension. HR&CE officials clarified that Ayyappan was not a temple employee but a hereditary priest who performed services voluntarily, and disciplinary provisions applicable to contract workers and staff could not be directly applied to him.
Additionally, two tonsure workers were suspended and their licenses temporarily cancelled for allegedly collecting money from devotees availing the free tonsure facility.
Broader Inspection
Apart from examining the allegations related to darshan, the minister reviewed the functioning of annadhanam halls and inspected temple properties. The team assessed whether revenues due to the temple were being properly collected and identified areas where income generation or collection could be affected.
HR&CE officials also reviewed basic infrastructure, sanitation facilities, and maintenance practices across the temple premises. “We are also studying how devotees can have darshan and leave the temple more quickly and what measures can be introduced for that purpose,” said Ramesh.
