The residents of Pilligundla Colony in Jogulamba Gadwal district have appealed to the District Collector for help in resolving a dispute over vacant land associated with the Anjaneya Swamy Temple in their colony. The temple, built with contributions from the local community and the Hamali Association, has become a central part of the residents’ lives, serving as a place of worship and a venue for community events like weddings.
Residents claim that the Hamali Association donated 20 plots for the temple when it was established. However, tensions have arisen as the temple’s priest, Krishna Sagar Iyer, along with certain political representatives, has allegedly restricted the use of the vacant land within the temple premises. They reportedly plan to build a function hall on the land and charge fees for its use, which has upset the community.
The residents argue that this decision is unfair, as the temple is meant to serve all Hindus in the colony, not just a specific group. They also dispute the claim that the temple exclusively belongs to the Hamali Association, saying it undermines community unity. One resident remarked, “No other religious community restricts access to their place of worship based on group affiliations. Why should this be done with our temple?”
Residents are worried that such restrictions could create social and religious tensions in the otherwise harmonious colony, which is home to people from diverse castes and communities. They believe the vacant land should remain accessible for community events, especially for economically weaker families who cannot afford to rent other venues.
Attempts to resolve the issue through the Municipal Commissioner have failed, as there is a lack of clarity about the 20 plots donated by the Hamali Association. Frustrated by the lack of progress, the residents are now urging the District Collector to intervene.
In their petition, the residents requested that the vacant land within the temple premises be preserved for communal use. “We humbly ask the District Collector to protect the interests of the poor and ensure the land remains available for community functions,” the petition concluded.
