ASI probes Lepakshi Temple idol theft

HINDUPUR: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) regional joint director K Venkatesaiah reprimanded officials and ASI conservator Srinivas working in the Lepakshi temple for failing to inform about the theft of Vidya Ganapathi’s idol from the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.Venkatesaiah visited the temple premises on Thursday to inquire into the incident. The theft took place two years back but it came to light recently.The ASI joint director pulled up the temple’s executive officer Narasimha Murthy for not reporting about the theft to the Archaeological Survey of India’s higher officials and even installing a new idol in its place even when the temple was under the protection of ASI.According to the rule, renovation works or changes in the structures under the ASI protection requires prior consent from its authorities.The ASI joint director inquired the office bearers of the temple about the missing idol and alleged reports of treasure hunt beneath the Vidya Ganapathi idol.