Srisailam Temple Board and Endowments Commissioner at Odds Over ₹19-Crore Sala Mandapam Projec

A controversy has surfaced at the Srisailam Temple in Andhra Pradesh over the proposed construction of Sala Mandapams worth ₹19 crore. The Temple Trust Board reportedly rejected the proposal twice through unanimous resolutions, stating that priority should instead be given to essential infrastructure such as a queue complex, public amenities complex, and additional toilet facilities to improve services for devotees.

Despite the Trust Board's decision, the Endowments Commissioner is said to have directed the temple administration to proceed with the tender process by exercising discretionary powers. Acting on these instructions, the Executive Officer reportedly invited tenders for the project. The Trust Board has criticised the move, questioning the relevance of its resolutions if they are not respected. The Chairman has also written an open letter to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, raising concerns over the Commissioner's functioning and seeking his intervention.