Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the Sri Venkateswara temple in Andhra Pradesh, has suspended four employees for allegedly practicing non-Hindu religions. The action was taken after a vigilance department report revealed "gross misconduct" and religious practices conflicting with the temple trust's code. TTD sources have stated that the board has decided not to allow any non-Hindu to work for the TTD, especially in temples governed and managed by it.

The suspended employees include B Elizar, Deputy Executive Engineer (quality control); S Rosi, staff nurse at BIRRD Hospital; M Premavati, Grade-I pharmacist at BIRRD Hospital; and Dr. G Asuntha of SV Ayurveda Pharmacy. According to a statement by the Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of TTD, the employees' actions violated the institution's code of conduct. The CPRO stated that the employees acted irresponsibly while performing duties in a Hindu religious organization. After examining the vigilance department's report and other evidence, departmental action was taken, and the four employees were immediately suspended.

TTD follows a strict code of conduct for its employees, especially those working in religious or associated institutions. Employees must adhere to the tenets of the Hindu faith in conduct and practice. Rule 9 (vi) of the Service Rules requires all employees to take an oath and sign a declaration that they will follow Hindu Dharma and practice Hindu traditions.

Earlier this year, on July 8, TTD suspended assistant executive officer A Rajasekhar Babu for attending local church prayers every Sunday. In February, the TTD transferred 18 employees for allegedly participating in non-Hindu religious activities. These employees worked as lecturers, hostel workers, office subordinates, engineers, helpers, nurses, and other paramedical staff in various TTD institutions. The TTD executive officer had previously instructed heads of departments not to assign these 18 employees to any temple-related duties, religious processions, programs, fairs, or festivals.

In November 2024, the TTD trust board resolved to surrender non-Hindus working in the temple administration to the government. The board also approved transferring non-Hindu employees to other government departments through alternative means or by offering them a Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS). According to TTD records from 2021, around 40 non-Hindus were employed within various TTD institutions.

The suspensions have sparked discussions on religious freedom within publicly funded or administered faith-based institutions. TTD officials have indicated that adherence to the institution's spiritual ethos is non-negotiable for its staff.