Daijiworld Media Network - Amaravati
Amaravati, Apr 5: Tension prevailed in Akividu town of West Godavari district on Sunday as police detained several leaders and activists attempting to enter the area to demand construction of a temple at a disputed religious site.
Police intercepted members of various Hindu organisations en route to the town and took them into custody, while imposing prohibitory orders to prevent gatherings. Authorities clarified that no permission had been granted for rallies or public meetings and warned of strict action against violations.
To maintain law and order, additional police forces were deployed, and a checkpost was set up at the town’s entry point. Vehicles, including buses operated by the state-run transport service, were being thoroughly checked to prevent outsiders from entering and escalating tensions.
Actress Karate Kalyani was also detained at Kaikalur in Eluru district while heading to Akividu in support of the temple demand. Placed under preventive detention, she later released a video urging her supporters to remain calm.
The situation follows a recent incident involving K. Raghu Rama Krishna Raju, Deputy Speaker and MLA, whose convoy was attacked after he garlanded an idol of Lord Ram during Sri Ram Navami celebrations in Pedapeta. The attack reportedly left three people injured.
The dispute centres around a structure believed to have been built in 1932. While some groups claim it should be developed into a Ram temple, sections of the local Dalit community maintain that the site is dedicated to Goddess Gonthenamma, their traditional deity.
A report by the Human Rights Forum stated that the structure is temple a choultry (inn) where the Gonthenamma idol was originally placed, and that idols of Ram and Sita were added later with the caretaker’s consent. The group has alleged attempts to convert the site into a Ram temple, linking the move to certain political and religious interests.
With tensions continuing, authorities remain on high alert to prevent any escalation in the sensitive area.