Who vandalised the Shiva Lingam at Draksharamam Temple?
Synopsis
In a shocking incident in Andhra Pradesh, a man has been arrested for vandalising the ancient Shiva Lingam at the revered Draksharamam Bhimeswara Temple. This act, motivated by personal grievances, sparked protests and led to immediate security measures to protect the sacred site. Learn more about the investigation and the temple's response.
Key Takeaways
The incident involved the vandalism of a significant religious symbol.
The accused was motivated by personal disputes.
Authorities responded swiftly with security measures.
CCTV footage played a crucial role in identifying the suspect.
The temple community is actively seeking to restore its sanctity.
Amaravati, Dec 31 (NationPress) A man has been apprehended for allegedly damaging the century-old Shiva Lingam at the historic Draksharamam Bhimeswara Temple located in Andhra Pradesh's Ambedkar Konaseema district, according to police reports on Wednesday.
The Shiva Lingam, situated near the Kapileswar Ghat adjacent to the North Gopuram of the temple, was discovered vandalised in the early hours of Tuesday.
Bhimeswara Temple, commonly referred to as Draksharamam, is one of the most esteemed temples in the state.
The suspect, identified as Srilam Srinivas, was captured on CCTV footage near the Kapileswar Ghat at the time of the incident.
As per police statements, Srinivas committed the act of vandalism due to a disagreement with the temple priest regarding the performance of certain rituals.
Endowments Minister Anam Ramnarayan Reddy has initiated an investigation into this occurrence, confirming that the suspect was identified through CCTV footage.
The perpetrator, who arrived on a motorcycle, was masked and carried a bag, using a hammer-like tool to deface the Shiva Lingam.
The minister noted that the accused had a conflict with an individual in the temple administration, but he expressed his frustration by desecrating the Lingam situated at the Sapta Godavari canal bank.
This incident took place on Vaikunta Ekadasi and initially incited widespread protests.
A new Shiva Lingam was ceremoniously reinstated shortly after the vandalism to appease devotees and restore the sanctity of the ghat.
District SP Rahul Meena visited the site to examine the damaged Shiva Lingam. A clues team, dog squad, and forensic specialists were deployed to collect evidence.
Due to the absence of CCTV cameras around the temple, police retrieved footage from nearby cameras to identify the suspect.
Following a prompt manhunt by four specialized police teams, the suspect was taken into custody.
The interrogation revealed a personal motive rather than an orchestrated communal act, as stated by the police.
Srinivas, a resident of Thotapeta village in Draksharamam, was apprehended swiftly.
In response to the incident, authorities installed high-definition CCTV cameras and increased police presence at the temple.
Previously, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu communicated with the Endowments Minister, instructing him to ensure the immediate arrest of those involved.
The Chief Minister also directed officials to bolster temple security statewide to avert similar occurrences.
Point of View
I believe this troubling incident highlights the need for enhanced security measures at places of worship. The act of vandalism not only disrespects religious sentiments but also threatens communal harmony. It is crucial for authorities to ensure the safety of such revered sites across the nation.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the Draksharamam Temple?
A man was arrested for vandalising the century-old Shiva Lingam at the Draksharamam Bhimeswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh.
What was the motive behind the vandalism?
The accused acted out of personal grievances related to a dispute with the temple priest over rituals.
What measures have been taken following the incident?
Authorities have installed high-definition CCTV cameras and increased police presence to enhance security at the temple.
Was the vandalism captured on camera?
Yes, the suspect was identified through CCTV footage collected from nearby areas.
What is the significance of the Draksharamam Temple?
The Draksharamam Bhimeswara Temple is one of the most revered shrines in Andhra Pradesh, attracting numerous devotees.
