In a fiery exchange, BJP State spokesperson Sadineni Yamini Sarma on Sunday vehemently opposed APCC president Y.S. Sharmila’s criticism regarding the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams’ (TTD) initiative to build new temples.
“Even if it’s not 5,000, we are ready to build 50,000 temples. What exactly is your issue, Sharmila?” challenged Ms. Yamini Sarma in a public statement. She further dared the APCC chief, stating, “If you possess true courage, direct your questions to churches about their contributions to social service from their income.”
Ms. Yamini Sarma’s strong remarks came as a direct response to Ms. Sharmila’s comments, which accused Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu of “adopting RSS ideology” by proposing the construction of 5,000 temples in Dalit colonies using funds from the revered Tirupati temple.
Ms. Yamini Sarma clarified, “The TTD functions as a sacred institution, responsibly utilizing devotees’ offerings not only for rituals and religious outreach but also for supporting hospitals and educational institutions. Unlike other religious bodies often dependent on government assistance, Hindu temples are self-sufficient.”
Further escalating her attack, Ms. Yamini Sarma labeled Ms. Sharmila as “anti-Hindu” and passionately urged her, “If your love for society is genuine, then donate all your personal wealth for its betterment.”
She praised Mr. Naidu’s plan to establish 5,000 Venkateswara temples in Dalit communities, describing it as a significant step to ensure divine blessings reach all sections of society. Ms. Yamini Sarma also highlighted the TTD’s existing extensive social welfare activities, including running schools, colleges, and hospitals.
Accusing the Congress party of historically favoring specific religious groups while exploiting Dalits for electoral gains, Ms. Yamini Sarma contrasted this with the BJP and NDA governments’ unwavering focus on the welfare of Dalit and tribal communities. She further lauded the RSS for its century-long dedication to national integration and social harmony, firmly stating, “Ms. Sharmila is completely unwarranted in her criticism of such a dedicated organization.”