Faith takes centrestage in laddu war, Naidu hits back at Jagan: ‘Nobody is bothered if he reads the Bible at home’

“Has anyone stopped him from going to the temple? All that some people have asked is you follow the rules and regulations of the temple. So many prominent persons have signed the declaration form and visited the temple without any fuss; what prevents Jagan from doing so?” Naidu said.

Hours earlier, Jagan had slammed Naidu and the TDP-led NDA government for using religion to settle political scores. “I may read the Bible inside the four walls of my home, but outside, I respect Hinduism, Islam, and Sikh religions. Don’t people know my religion? As CM, I have presented the sacred clothes to Lord Venkateswara. No one questioned my religion and faith ever. How dare the TDP and alliance leaders ask me not to visit the temple?” he said.

In response, Naidu said, “Nobody is bothered if Jagan reads the Bible at his home. We all follow some faith or the other. Jagan says that while he reads the Bible at home, he respects all religions outside. If so, why doesn’t he want to respect the rules and traditions of Tirumala temple – of declaring if one is from a different faith? Every law abiding citizen has done it before.”

“Jagan says that as CM, he has visited the temple several times and offered sacred clothes to the Lord, and nobody stopped him or questioned his faith. I think that Jagan used his power and strongarmed his way into the temple. He broke all rules and traditions. Why will people and devotees accept that? Rowdyism will not take you anywhere. Law abiding citizens, including very prominent persons, have declared their faith and signed on the declaration form and visited the temple. Nobody stops anyone from seeking the blessings of Lord Venkateswara. All they request is that you follow the rules and traditions,” the CM said.