Simhachalam Tragedy Sparks Political Outrage as YSRCP Targets Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan
The tragic wall collapse at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Simhachalam during the Chandanotsavam festival, which claimed the lives of seven devotees, has not only plunged the state into mourning but also triggered a wave of political controversy.
In the aftermath, YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) spokesperson Shyamala made sharp remarks against Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, accusing him of failing to uphold the values of Sanatana Dharma. Referring to him as the “Peethadhipathi of Pithapuram”, she questioned his silence and alleged inaction in light of what she described as repeated assaults on Hindu faith under the new coalition government.
Allegations of Religious Neglect and Misgovernance
Shyamala drew a direct line from recent incidents to the leadership of the current administration, led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. She accused Naidu of inciting divine displeasure through “false propaganda” against former CM Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, particularly concerning the sacred laddu prasadam at Tirumala.
“It appears that ever since then, the deity has turned away in anger,” she claimed, pointing to what she described as a terrifying sequence of events, including:
- The stampede during Vaikuntha Ekadashi, which resulted in the deaths of six devotees and injuries to dozens more.
- The mysterious deaths of over 100 cows at the TTD Goshala.
- The burning of dead tortoises behind the EO’s office at Srikudumam.
- Reports of alcohol and non-vegetarian food, including egg biryani, allegedly found on the sacred Tirumala hills.
Shyamala alleged that these events point to a systemic erosion of religious sanctity and administrative failure.
Simhachalam Wall Collapse: A Case of Corruption?
Turning specifically to the Simhachalam tragedy, Shyamala questioned how a wall that was reportedly constructed just 20 days ago could collapse so catastrophically. She alleged the incident was rooted in “greed for money” among leaders of the ruling coalition.
“Today, the people have understood the true nature of this coalition government,” she said, implying that public trust is eroding due to both religious mismanagement and structural negligence.
Political Implications
The remarks are expected to intensify the already tense political climate in Andhra Pradesh, with the opposition capitalizing on the public outrage stemming from repeated safety and religious violations. As rescue and relief operations continue at Simhachalam, the tragedy has now taken on a broader dimension—becoming both a humanitarian crisis and a political flashpoint.
