Kanaka Durga Temple Initiates Probe Over Milk Purity Allegations
In a development that has stirred considerable concern among devotees, allegations regarding impurities in milk used for sacred rituals at the renowned Kanaka Durga temple in Vijayawada have prompted swift administrative action. Temple authorities have stepped in decisively following claims that circulated on social media platforms, leading to an official investigation and disciplinary measures.
WhatsApp Message Triggers Temple Controversy
The controversy erupted after an unverified message was posted in an internal temple WhatsApp group, alleging the presence of worms in cow's milk designated for the Sri Chakra Archana worship. This specific ritual holds immense significance for devotees, making the allegations particularly sensitive. The message, circulated without proper verification according to temple officials, created panic and hurt religious sentiments, compelling the administration to address the matter with urgency.
Administrative Response and Disciplinary Actions
Taking the claims seriously, the temple administration launched a formal probe. Notices were issued to senior religious functionaries, including Temple Sthanacharya V Shiva Prasad Sharma and chief priest Lingambotla Durgaprasad, seeking written explanations within one week. Authorities clarified that these notices were served as both priests fall under the administrative supervision of the temple executive officer.
In a significant move, executive officer VK Seena Nayak, acting on government directives, suspended priest Subrahmanyam, senior assistant Seetharamaiah from the stores department, and one junior assistant. Furthermore, notices were issued to departmental superintendents Sunitha and Kalyan for alleged supervisory lapses. Officials emphasized that such disciplinary action was necessary to uphold the sanctity of temple rituals and prevent the unchecked spread of misinformation.
Ongoing Investigation and Quality Assurance
Temple authorities have stressed that no conclusive evidence has yet been established regarding impurities in the milk, and a detailed examination is currently underway. They reiterated that strict quality checks are routinely followed for all materials used in temple rituals. Assuring devotees, the administration confirmed that corrective measures are being implemented wherever required to maintain the highest standards of purity and devotion.
This incident highlights the challenges religious institutions face in the digital age, where unverified information can quickly escalate. The Kanaka Durga temple's proactive response aims to restore confidence among devotees while ensuring that ritual practices remain unimpeachable in their sanctity and quality.
