Cops stop work, shout slogans against TTD Official

Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, Oct 17 (UNI) A standoff between the police and a top-ranking official of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) official took an ugly turn during last night's 'Garuda Seva' with the men in uniform demanding an apology for alleged manhandling of a sub-inspector of police by the official.

Scores of policemen, including Sub Inspectors and Constables on security duty at the Sri Venkateswara Temple here, shouted slogans demanding an apology from Joint Executive Officer G Balaramiah for allegedly beating Sub Inspector Suryanarayna when he was engaged in regulating crowds during the 'Garuda Seva.' They threatened to boycott the Navarathri Brahmotsavam if the issue was not settled before 0800 hrs today prompting TTD Executive Officer K V Ramanachary, TTD Chairman B Karunakara Reddy and top officials to rush to the spot in the wee hours of today.

After an assurance by Mr Ramanachary and Chittoor District Superintendent of Police to conduct an enquiry into the issue, the policemen resumed duty.

Mr Balaramiah, however, denied the allegations and said the officer was only pushed out and not beaten as he failed to control crowds leading to a minor stampede.

UNI