Amaravati: Marking the completion of 100 days of NDA governance, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated the Anna canteen outside the Secretariat in Velagapudi. The canteen, designed to provide affordable meals to the poor, was launched with tokens distributed to beneficiaries who were personally served meals by the Chief Minister.
Speaking on the occasion, Naidu emphasized the importance of Anna canteens in the state, criticizing the previous government for discontinuing the initiative. “The previous government canceled 203 rice canteens maliciously. We are reopening them to provide meals to the underprivileged. By August 15, 175 canteens were operational, and we plan to open another 75 by the 100-day milestone. Today, 450 people are fed in each canteen daily,” he said.
Concerns Over Tirumala Desecration
During the event, Chandrababu Naidu also addressed concerns regarding the desecration of Tirumala, a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus. He expressed outrage over reports of improper handling of temple resources and the use of Lord Venkateswara Swamy’s idol for political purposes.
“They damaged the sanctity of Tirumala by misusing prasadams and canteens. Venkateswara Swamy is the God of Kali Yuga for Hindus, and to use Him for political gains is unacceptable,” Naidu stated. He assured the public that action would be taken against those responsible for these violations, citing a lab report that indicated the use of impure materials.
Measures to Protect Tirumala
The Chief Minister highlighted the significance of Tirumala for Hindu devotees, pointing out that millions aspire to visit the temple at least once in their lifetime. “We have initiated cleaning processes in Tirumala, and most of the work has been completed. If evidence is found, we will take strict action against those involved. The sanctity of this sacred site must be preserved,” Naidu affirmed.
He also mentioned the legacy of former Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao, who introduced the Annadanam program at Tirumala, providing free meals to pilgrims. Naidu acknowledged that food distribution in the past faced challenges but assured that efforts are being made to restore the glory of Tirumala.
