Simhachalam Temple Irregularities: Action Delayed Despite Inquiry Report
Allegations of irregularities at the Simhachalam Devasthanam have intensified, with complaints that no action has been taken despite inquiry reports flagging missing and unaccounted temple ornaments.
Gold and silver ornaments belonging to Lord Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy and allied sub-temples are alleged to be missing or not properly accounted for in temple records. Though a committee reportedly submitted its findings several months ago, disciplinary action has yet to follow, triggering criticism over the pace of the response by authorities.
The issue was first flagged in November 2024 by K. Prabhakar Achari of Kadapa district, who complained that temple valuables were missing. He escalated the matter to the Endowments Department Commissioner in January 2025, followed by representations to the Visakhapatnam District Collector in June and the Chief Minister’s Office in August.
He has also alleged that he faced pressure from an official during his pursuit of the complaint and sought protection and a fair inquiry from higher authorities.
Following the complaints, the Endowments Department ordered an investigation. A Jewellery Verification Officer inspection reportedly found discrepancies, including shortages in a gold pearl necklace and several silver items not reflected in official registers. It also noted lapses in issuing receipts for valuable offerings made by devotees.
A five-member committee was later constituted for a detailed probe and is said to have submitted its report in October after examining temple records and stock verification.
During the inquiry, further discrepancies were reportedly identified, including unrecorded silver ornaments discovered during transfers of custodial charge and alleged missing gold items used in temple rituals. Some temple staff reportedly stated that certain items were never formally handed over to them.
Despite these findings, no action has been initiated so far, according to the complainant, who alleges deliberate delay in acting against officials, some of whom are nearing retirement.
Prabhakar Achari has also said he was denied access to the inquiry report. He has urged the Endowments Commissioner to conduct an open inquiry in the presence of temple stakeholders and demanded strict action against those responsible for the alleged mismanagement of temple assets.