2 months ago
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A 79-year-old unpaid was caught red-handed portion attempting to bargain currency during the ritualistic counting of the temple ‘hundi’ (collection box) astatine the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple successful Simhachalam connected Wednesday.
The incidental caused a disturbance astatine the salient pilgrimage site, starring temple authorities to telephone for a reappraisal of information protocols during the counting process.
Theft detected during counting
In accordance to temple regulations, the ‘hundi’ counting was being carried retired connected Wednesday morning. Among the volunteers B. Rambabu (79), representing the Srihari Seva Sangham was besides present.
At astir 11:20 a.m., erstwhile counting was successful afloat swing, Rambabu allegedly pocketed currency amounting to ₹17,100. He attempted to conceal the notes successful his manus and exit the premises nether the guise of completing his duties.
SPF unit intervene
The suspicious movements of the unpaid alerted the Special Protection Force (SPF) unit stationed astatine the ‘hundi’ counting hall. They intercepted B. Rambabu, searched him, and recovered the stolen cash. Following a preliminary enquiry by temple officials, the accused reportedly confessed to the theft.
Police ailment lodged
Acting connected the instructions of the Temple Executive Officer, Deputy EO Singam Radha handed implicit the accused on with the recovered currency to the Gopalapatnam police. A ceremonial ailment has been lodged, requesting stringent enactment against the idiosyncratic for violating the sanctity of the temple.
Temple authorities stated that they are investigating however the breach occurred contempt existing surveillance and volition instrumentality much rigorous frisking and monitoring measures to forestall specified recurrences successful the future.
Speaking to The Hindu, Simhachalam temple enforcement serviceman Mr.J.Venkata Rao said, “The incidental is true. I person alerted my unit to heighten the surveillance strategy with much CC cameras wherever ever shadiness points are notified. We usually behaviour the ‘hundi’ counting doubly successful a period and get a postulation of astir ₹1.5 crores to ₹2 crores each session. Nearly 100-110 volunteers prosecute successful the activity.”
