Securitymen of VIPs enter the temple with guns

KURNOOL: The Bhramarambhika Mallikarjuna Swamy temple in Srisailam is reportedly said to have a security threat. But devotees visiting the temple will be surprised to see the poor security arrangements.According to Devasthanam rules, every devotee has to clear the mandatory security check by passing through the metal door detector at the main entrance or the Pradhana Mukhadwaram. But since both metal detectors are out of order, no actual checking is done before allowing devotees to enter the temple premises. Devotees as well as temple staff are seen carrying bags and mobiles into the temple.Though Devasthanam officials have put up rules to be followed clearly on the walls, the temple officials do not enforce them properly, which has made many visitors feel insecure about their valuables. Locals said private security attached to VIPs enter into the temple carrying their weapons, which is against the rules. Again, all devotees are supposed to gain entry by using only the main entrance. But in the last several months, many devotees alleged to be relatives of temple officials are being permitted through other entrances. The compound wall attached to the Shivaji Gopuram is short. There is every possibility of thieves breaking in and stealing temple jewellery and other valuables.Officials said there were nearly 120 security personnel which includes district forces, the AP Special Force and a private security agency. Temple executive officer P Venkateshwarlu said he could not be blamed for security lapses since security personnel are responsible for security arrangements.