Move to slash Security at Bhadradri temple draws flak

Khammam,Nov 3:The State Government decision to slash private security at Sri Sitha Ramachandra Swamy temple on the north bank of river Godavari at Bhadrachalam has come in for flak from temple authorities as well as the devout.The move to cut down security at the temple comes at a time when the terrorist attacks on Hindu temples are on the rise causing alarm to the safety of the devout Hindus who visit the Rama temples in thousands everyday.The decision will also affect the efficiency of the Special Protection Force who will have to shoulder additional responsibilities once the private security is cut down.

According to top police authorities, the Special Police Force has the onus of providing security and safety of the devotees at the temple of Lord Rama.As per the strategy to provide security at the temple, top police brass suggested formation of a core team comprising a sub- inspector of police and 32 constables.It was also planned to build towers in the four sides of the temple to facilitate the armed forces to spot and prevent the entry of terrorists.These directions were proposed by the police higher-ups to protect the 17th century historical temple, built by Kancherla Goppanna but the Endowments department authorities are, apparently, not willing to implement the guidelines as it has to deposit a requisite amount for maintaining the SPF,it is reliably learnt.

Deployment of the Special Protection Force immediately at the temple does not seem to be on the cards. The private security which hitherto existed on the temple premises instead of the SPF is being put aside. Presently, the SPF has only 11constables and the strength is inadequate for the safe security of the temple.