The recent incident near the Tirupati East railway station, where a Muslim auto driver allegedly attacked Hindu pilgrims, has raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of devotees visiting the sacred town. In response, Dr. Prakasarao Velagapudi, President of the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF), has written a strong letter to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Chairman, Sri B R Naidu, urging immediate and decisive action.

Tirumala is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in the world. Millions of devotees visit every year, seeking a spiritual and religious experience. It is the sacred duty, or dharma, of the TTD to ensure that these pilgrims are safe, comfortable, and free from any form of abuse or harassment. The August 8, 2025, incident highlights a dangerous lapse in this responsibility.

In his letter, Dr. Velagapudi has outlined several crucial steps that the TTD, in collaboration with the Tirupati Urban Development Authority (TUDA) and the Police Department, must take immediately.

Key Measures Outlined by GHHF:

Regulated Auto Rickshaw Services: A structured system is needed where all auto rickshaws are registered and assigned to designated parking areas. Pilgrims should be able to request an auto through a police-managed system, ensuring fair service and accountability.

Standardized Fares: To prevent overcharging and exploitation, a standard rate card for auto fares to different parts of Tirupati and Tirumala should be implemented and strictly enforced.

Enhanced TTD Bus Services: The TTD's "Dharma Radhams" (buses) must run on a frequent schedule, ideally every 30 minutes, to provide a reliable and safe transportation option for pilgrims. This service is crucial for pilgrims traveling from the railway station to Tirumala.

Clear Bus Stands: The designated TTD bus parking area at the East Railway Station must be cleared of all other vehicles to allow smooth bus operations.

Strict Enforcement and Punishment: Any auto driver who violates the established rules, or is found to be abusing, attacking, or insulting pilgrims, must face severe consequences, including the confiscation of their vehicle and immediate arrest.

Any delay in addressing these issues could embolden disruptive elements and further endanger the lives and dignity of innocent pilgrims. Dr. Velagapudi has requested that the TTD not only respond to these concerns but also announce the concrete steps it is taking to protect its devotees. The safety of every pilgrim should be the top priority, ensuring their journey to have darshan of Lord Venkateswara is a truly divine and peaceful experience.