Andhra Pradesh temple vandalism: Man detained over desecration of ancient ‘Shiva Lingam’

Authorities in Andhra Pradesh have detained a man for the desecration of a century-old "Shiva Lingam" at a historic temple site, an act that initially sparked local unrest during a major religious festival.

The vandalism occurred early Tuesday during Vaikunta Ekadasi at the Kapileswar Ghat of the Draksharamam temple. Police identified the suspect as Neelam Srinivas, a resident of nearby Thotapeta village.

According to reports from NDTV, the investigators used high-definition CCTV footage to identify Srinivas near the site at the time of the incident. Four specialised police units were deployed to track and apprehend him.

While the incident raised immediate concerns regarding communal stability, preliminary questioning suggests a personal grievance rather than a sectarian motive. Investigators believe Srinivas had a recent, intense argument with a local priest over the conduct of certain rituals. It is alleged that the suspect targeted the sacred idol on the banks of the Sapta Godavari canal in an act of "revenge" against the temple’s administration.

The administration of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has called for a rigorous and transparent probe. Following the incident, a new "Shiva Lingam" was ceremoniously installed to restore the site's sanctity and calm the local community.

"The state government... has maintained a firm stance, directing the police to ensure a transparent investigation regardless of the suspect's background or affiliations," authorities said.

Security has since been bolstered at the riverfront with permanent police patrols and upgraded surveillance. Officials noted that formal charges are pending the conclusion of the preliminary interrogation.