The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the sacred shrine of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala, is currently addressing multiple security challenges ranging from fraudulent booking portals and touts to banned electronic gadgets and unauthorized drones.

To combat these issues, the administration is heavily stepping up its enforcement efforts against all forms of cheating and security rule violations. Authorities are taking strict action against deceptive operators who target pilgrims visiting the holy site.

Crackdown on Touts and Staff Violations

According to official reports, the TTD vigilance department has lodged 30 criminal cases against touts. These individuals allegedly trap devotees

Furthermore, officials stated that the management has taken strict disciplinary action against 43 employees this year for breaking the code of conduct, which includes various instances of cheating devotees.

An official stated regarding the crackdown: "The TTD has made it clear that uncompromising action will be taken against anyone involved in such activities."

Read More: Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma Scripts History in IAF

Action Against Fake Booking Platforms

Another major battleground for the temple administration involves fraudulent websites designed to deceive pilgrims seeking online services. Authorities have successfully identified 249 such deceptive online platforms.

A TTD Vigilance Department official stated: "In addition to registering two criminal cases, TTD has successfully shut down all these websites with the cooperation of the relevant agencies."

The administration has issued a public advisory urging devotees to remain extremely alert against fake websites and links circulating online under the TTD name. Pilgrims are advised to use only the official TTD website and mobile application for all services, darshan slots, accommodations, and online ticket bookings, and to completely avoid links shared on social media.

Specifically, authorities pointed out that a website named 'ttddevasthanam.online', which has gone viral on social media, is entirely fraudulent.

An official from the office of the TTD Executive Officer explained: "Some people have created this website to resemble the official online services of TTD, with only minor changes in the domain name, and are trying to cheat devotees. It falsely displays information that Srivari Darshan and Seva tickets are available for August, September and October."

Consequently, complaints have been filed with domain administrators to remove the fake platform immediately, and a formal criminal case has been registered at the Tirumala Two Town Police Station.

Also Read: Gold Rates Today: Rising Tensions in the Middle East Drive Safe-Haven Rally

Legal Steps Against Unauthorized Promotions

In another recent development, the TTD lodged a police complaint last week and started legal action against a company named 'SCP Developers'.

The firm had purportedly published social media reels promising lifetime Srivari VIP Break Darshan at the temple for individuals who purchased real estate plots situated along the Tirupati highway.

The TTD has strongly denied having any connection to the company. Following the legal notice, the business has reportedly removed its promotional content from social media platforms.

Technology and Gadget Seizures

On the technological security front, the administration is actively intercepting prohibited equipment at the temple gates. Officials reported that security personnel have detected and seized 261 drones and 105 Meta Smart Glasses at the temple entrance.