In Tirumala, it is customary for non-Hindu VIPs to sign a declaration of faith in Balaji to gain access to the sacred Darshan. High-profile figures like Sonia Gandhi and former President Abdul Kalam have adhered to this tradition in the past. Now, as Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy prepares for a visit to Tirumala on the 28th of this month, the Andhra Pradesh BJP wing, led by Purandeshwari, has called on him to follow suit.

Purandeshwari took to Twitter, referencing G.O. MS NO-311 of AP Revenue Endowments–1, which mandates that non-Hindus must provide a declaration at the Vaikuntam queue complex before receiving Darshan. She emphasized that this practice has been in place for decades and is also outlined in the TTD (Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams) general regulations.

She insisted that Jagan should make this declaration at Alipiri Ghat, prior to starting his trek to Tirumala, framing it as an essential step for any Christian visiting the temple. Notably, Jagan has visited Tirumala numerous times during his tenure as CM without declaring his faith, raising questions about whether he will comply this time.

The potential fallout if he chooses not to make the declaration could lead to friction with local BJP cadres, who may leverage the situation for political gain. With the weekend fast approaching, all eyes will be on Jagan’s actions and the possible implications for Andhra Pradesh politics.