The term of the BR Naidu-led Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) governing board has come to an end. With the two-year tenure concluding on October 31, attention has now shifted to the next chairman and the new board. The big question is whether the TDP-led NDA alliance can make a choice that does not invite fresh controversies.
The current board was appointed on November 1, 2024, after the coalition government came to power. The TTD administration has already faced its share of challenges. The alleged ghee adulteration scam during the previous YSRCP government severely damaged the institution’s reputation and raised serious concerns about the quality of the sacred Tirumala laddu. The present government has since been under pressure to restore public confidence and ensure better accountability.
The ongoing local body elections and the Model Code of Conduct are likely to delay the appointment of a new board. Until then, the government is expected to consider a temporary administrative arrangement through a specified authority.
Meanwhile, the race for the chairman’s post has gathered attention. Former TDP state president Kala Venkata Rao and current TTD board member Jyothula Nehru are among the names being discussed. There is also speculation about whether BR Naidu could get another opportunity. A prominent personality from the film industry is reportedly in the race as well.
The appointment will not be an easy political decision. TDP, Jana Sena and BJP are all part of the ruling alliance. Each party has its own expectations when it comes to board representation. Regional and social considerations will also influence the final selection.
However, after the controversies surrounding the previous YSRCP regime and the issues that emerged during the current board’s tenure, the next appointment carries considerable importance.
The chairman should be credible and able to keep the institution away from unnecessary controversy. After the laddu controversy and the issues that followed, TTD needs stability, not another round of controversy over its chairman.
