Yoganarasimha Swamy Temple staff booked for hundi theft, probe on

Mandya: A case has been registered against several temple staff members and priests of the renowned Yoganarasimha Swamy Temple, Melukote, following allegations of theft involving cash, gold and silver offerings from the temple hundi.Based on a complaint lodged by temple executive officer Sheela, Melukote police have registered an FIR against temple administrator (Parupattegara) Shridhar, priest Narayana Bhatta, attendant Thiruvenghadachar and security personnel Gangadhar and Basavaraj, police said, adding that they are investigating.According to sources, repeated incidents of damage to surveillance equipment installed within the temple premises led to suspicion. The administration reportedly installed concealed cameras to monitor activities without informing most of the staff members. However, these hidden cameras were also allegedly damaged, raising concerns that the acts may have been deliberate and intended to facilitate the theft of offerings from the hundi. Before approaching the police, the executive officer launched a probe, issuing notices seeking explanations from the employees concerned. As the responses received were found to be unsatisfactory, a formal complaint was filed.Speaking to TOI, EO Sheela said some staff damaged the spy cameras. She noted that priests are required to be present when the sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagudi) is opened or closed. However, the priests concerned were reportedly absent at the time of the incident, leading to allegations of dereliction of duty against them, she said.Melukote police are continuing their investigation, and further action is expected based on the findings of the inquiry, she said.