Man arrested for theft during hundi counting at Simhachalam temple

Visakhapatnam: A volunteer was allegedly caught red-handed while attempting to steal cash during the ritualistic counting of the temple hundi (collection box) at Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple in Simhachalam on Wednesday.The counting of the collection box process was conducted in compliance with temple regulations and under security supervision. Among the volunteers, B. Rambabu, representing the Srihari Seva Sangham, was also present. During the counting proceedings, security personnel reportedly noticed Rambabu’s suspicious movements. Upon inspection, they discovered he had allegedly concealed Rs. 17,100 cash in his hand and was attempting to leave the premises unnoticed.The temple staff recovered the amount and handed him over to the Gopalapatnam police station for further investigation. The incident caused a stir at the prominent pilgrimage place, leading temple authorities to call for a review of security protocols during the counting process.