Overview
- The HR&CE minister, who visited the Tiruchendur Subramanya Swami Temple on Friday, May 29, entered incognito and says he confirmed complaints that money was being taken to speed up darshan.
- During the visit a priest allegedly demanded payment and the minister reportedly made a digital transfer to test the practice before revealing his identity.
- An official order dated May 29 removed two ex-servicemen security personnel posted at the Shanmuga Vilasa Mandapam entrance after they were accused of receiving payments to admit devotees.
- The minister ordered inspections of the annadhana dining hall, temple properties, revenue records, infrastructure and sanitation and said a formal inquiry will determine disciplinary action.
- HR&CE runs major temples in Tamil Nadu and the inquiry could lead to tighter controls on staff conduct and revenue use, with investigators expected to publish detailed findings and penalties after the probe ends.