Andhra govt withdraws Anitha from TTD board

The Andhra Pradesh government on Thursday withdrew the appointment of Payakaraopet Legislator Vangalapudi Anita from the newly constituted Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) board, following a video showing her saying that she is a Christian became viral.

Several right-wing organisations also demanded the government to withdraw her appointment.

Anitha in a letter had urged the government to withdraw her appointment. However, she reiterated that she was a Hindu and has been a worshipper of Lord Venkateswara. “I am deeply pained to learn that some groups with vested interests have created an unsavoury controversy about this,” Anitha said.

She charged that her interview with a TV channel has been edited to tarnish her image.

However, the government finally decided to put an end to the controversy. “The government after examining the matter decided to accept the request of the individual,” the order mentioned.

However, the government has not yet nominated Anita’s replacement for the 18-member board.