- Suspect Neelam Srinivas detained for vandalising historic Shiva Lingam
- Incident occurred at Sapta Godavari ghat on Vaikunta Ekadasi
- Police cite personal dispute as possible motive
- Security tightened, new Lingam ceremonially reinstalled
GG News Bureau
Draksharamam, 31st Dec: A man has been detained for desecrating the century-old Shiva Lingam at the historic Draksharamam temple in Andhra Pradesh, an incident that triggered widespread protests and concerns over communal harmony in the region.
The vandalism occurred in the early hours of Tuesday on the auspicious Vaikunta Ekadasi day. Police identified the suspect as Neelam Srinivas, a resident of Thotapeta village.
District Superintendent of Police Rahul Meena said the accused was spotted in high-definition CCTV footage near Kapileswar Ghat, the site of the incident, around the time the desecration took place. Four special police teams were formed to track him down, following which Srinivas was taken into custody for questioning.
Preliminary interrogation suggests that the act may have stemmed from a personal dispute rather than an organised communal motive. According to police, Srinivas had a heated argument with a local temple priest over the performance of certain rituals. Investigators believe he may have targeted the Lingam in a fit of rage or as an act of revenge against the temple administration.
The state government, led by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, has directed police to ensure a transparent and impartial probe, irrespective of the suspect’s background or affiliations.
To restore the sanctity of the site and pacify devotees, a new Shiva Lingam was ceremonially reinstalled at the ghat shortly after the incident. Authorities have also permanently deployed high-definition CCTV cameras and enhanced police patrolling along the Sapta Godavari riverfront.
Officials said formal charges would be filed after completion of preliminary questioning.
