Deeply hurt by the Tirupati laddu controversy, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Janasena Party chief Pawan Kalyan has formed a new party wing – Narasimha Varahi Brigade – dedicated to protecting Sanatana Dharma.
“I respect all religions, but I stand firm on my faith. Those who criticize Sanatana Dharma on social media or speak disrespectfully about it will have to face the consequences. Thus, I am establishing a dedicated wing within our party named the ‘Narasimha Varahi Brigade’ for the protection of Sanatana Dharma,” Kalyan said, announcing the formation of the new brigade.
The development follows recent allegations concerning the usage of adulterated ghee in the prasadam at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala.
Last month, the Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister advocated for a robust national law to protect Sanatana Dharma and prevent actions that disrespect the same.
“A strong national Act is needed to protect Sanatana Dharma and prevent harm to its beliefs. This Act should be enacted immediately and enforced uniformly across Bharat,” he was quoted as saying.
Kalyan had also proposed establishing a Sanatana Dharma Protection Board at both the national and state levels to ensure that the law is implemented properly.
The actor-leader also underlined the need for Sanatana Dharma certification to ensure purity in materials used in the temple.
“There should be non-cooperation with those who defame or spread hatred against Sanatana Dharma,” Kalyan added.
“The certification would ensure only pure materials are used for offerings, preserving the sanctity of our temples.”
On the occasion, the leader also talked about his connection to the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple in IS Jaganathapuram, which he has been supporting since 2009. He pledged rupees 4.5 crore for its development.
Meanwhile, newly appointed chairman of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) Board, B R Naidu, has recommended that people who in the temple’s premises should be Hindus.
“Everyone who works at Tirumala should be a Hindu. That would be my first effort. There are many issues in this. We have to look into that,” BR Naidu was quoted as saying in the reports.