Andhra Pradesh Govt orders not to interference in the temple customs and traditions

A commendable decision of the Andhra Pradesh Government

Amaravati (Andhra Pradesh) – According to a notification issued by the Andhra Pradesh Government, it has been clarified that ‘no administrative officer (Commissioner, Regional Joint Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner or Assistant Commissioner) shall interfere in the traditions, customs and practices of the temples under his jurisdiction’.

The order issued in this regard has clarified that ‘temple sites should be given autonomy regarding Vedas and Agamas, the sanctity of the customs and traditions of the temples should be maintained intact, and the provisions of Section 13(1) of the Charities Act should be strictly followed’.

Commendable Order by Andhra Pradesh Government

No Govt Interference in Temple Traditions! 🙏

🔸 Final authority lies with Acharyas & Archakas
🔸 Each temple treated as autonomous
🔸 No admin role in seva or puja

While this order by the Andhra Pradesh Government is appropriate… pic.twitter.com/gsHljFlXN3

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) July 24, 2025

What is the order ?

1. In important religious decisions, the decision of the Acharya or Archak is final

The opinion of the senior priests and religious officers of the temple shall be decisive in taking any decision regarding the rituals, services (service methods), yagas, kumbhabhishekam, festivals and ceremonies. If required, the executive officers may constitute a Veda Shastra Committee for the temples. In case of disagreement, the Peethadhipati of the Peeth related to that Agama tradition should be consulted.

2. Each temple will be considered independent

No temple, even if it is of the same Agama tradition, will be forced to follow the traditions of another temple.

3. Administrative interference in service methods is prohibited

The executive officer may intervene only to ensure that no anti-Agama changes occur; however, the officer may not interfere with the method of service or worship.

Editorial Perspective

Though in the current situation, this order of the Andhra Pradesh Government is commendable, it is eventually necessary that Hindu temples be freed from the Government control. Only then the Government machinery won’t be able to interfere in temple matters.