Chennai, June 5:
Days after alleged irregularities surfaced at the Tiruchendur Subramaniya Swamy Temple, the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department on Thursday transferred several key officials, including Joint Commissioner and Executive Officer K. Ramu, and appointed a new administrative team.
The reshuffle was ordered by HR&CE Commissioner T.G. Vinay following a surprise inspection by HR&CE Minister S. Ramesh, which reportedly uncovered complaints of bribery and procedural violations in the conduct of darshan at the temple.
According to official orders, A. Arunachalam has been appointed as the new Executive Officer of the Tiruchendur temple, while K. Ramu has been transferred to the Tiruverkadu Devi Karumariamman temple. Assistant Commissioner and PA S. Meivel and other officials were also shifted as part of the corrective measures.
Confirming the action, Minister Ramesh said the government has taken administrative steps to prevent recurrence of such practices and ensure accountability in temple management. He also announced the formation of an inquiry committee to further investigate the allegations.
The move comes amid increasing scrutiny over the functioning of one of Tamil Nadu’s most prominent temples and signals a stricter approach by the department towards maintaining transparency and discipline.