In a groundbreaking move, the Andhra Pradesh government has become one of the first states in India to issue an abstract implementation under Section 13(1) of the Endowments Act a directive that mandates government officials to refrain from interfering with the Vedic and Agama traditions of temples, preserving the sanctity of their customs and practices. The government emphasizes the importance of strict adherence to statutory provisions to ensure these traditions are upheld without disruption.
According to GO No 223, dated 9 October 2024, the AP government instructed all departmental authorities to comply with Section 13(1) of the AP Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments Act, 1987. This act aims to ensure temples’ autonomy regarding Vaidic and Agama traditions and preserve the sanctity of their customs and practices without disturbance in Andhra Pradesh.
It declares that no administrative authority, including the Commissioner, Regional Joint Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, or Assistant Commissioner, shall interfere with the Agama traditions, customs, and practices of the respective temples in any way.
According to the order, all decisions regarding important religious matters, such as the performance of rituals and services to deities, the scheduling of auspicious times for Yagams and Kumbabhishekams, and the introduction of new rituals, the opinions of the senior-most archakas and religious staff shall take precedence concerning religious aspects. Executive Officers may form Vaidic committees with the senior religious staff of the temples, if necessary. If any doubts or disagreements arise within the committee, the opinions of recognized Peethadhipathis related to the specific Agama may be consulted, notes the order. No religious institution shall be compelled to adopt the customs of another institution, even if they belong to the same Agama, it further says.
Executive authorities shall not interfere in rituals or services to deities, the scheduling of auspicious times, or festivals except to ensure adherence to that specific temple’s Agama traditions, customs, and practices. The Commissioner of Endowments is tasked with taking further action on this matter.
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