Authorities in Andhra Pradesh have arrested two individuals, including a YSRCP worker, for allegedly orchestrating a stunt to smear the reputation of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) and the local police. The arrests of Allapaka Koti and Mohana Krishna, a photographer for a local newspaper, took place on Tirupati Zoo Park Road following a targeted investigation into a viral social media controversy.
The case began on January 4, when photos of empty liquor bottles dumped near the Kaustubam Guest House — close to the Police Guest House — started circulating online. From these posts, it is clear that there were allegations that liquor is being smuggled through the toll gate at Alipiri and that it is being consumed inside the sacred hills.
In these hills, liquor is totally banned. Nevertheless, the police account gives a different impression, which is more of a planned scene rather than a breach of security. By analysing the CCTV and car movement, it was established that the suspects actually purchased empty old bottles from elsewhere and arranged them in the bushes with the aim of creating this scene.
According to the media release, the suspects chose this site with the purpose of creating a situation which looks as if the police are involved in or ignoring the activity.
While Koti and Krishna are currently in custody, the police are still searching for a third accomplice, a YSRCP social media activist named Naveen, who is believed to have helped amplify the fake claims. Teams have been deployed to track him down so that the pilgrims are reassured about the sanctity of the temple town.
Also read: Tirumala adulterated ghee case: CBI SIT grills ex-TTD GM
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