The Forgotten Pink Diamond: A Scandal Buried Under Political Alliances and Temple Prasadam Rows
In the grand halls of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), one of India's richest temples, treasures donated by devotees over centuries adorn the deity of Lord Venkateswara. Among these, a alleged priceless pink diamond—part of a platinum necklace—sparked a firestorm in 2018. Yet, as Andhra Pradesh's political landscape shifts with alliances and elections, this multi-crore mystery has faded into obscurity. Why? And why do minor controversies like adulterated ghee and laddus dominate headlines today, while a potential heist of divine jewels gathers dust? This article uncovers the facts, the players, and the uncomfortable questions that demand answers.
The Theft That Shook Tirupati: What Happened in 2018?
It was May 2018, midway through N. Chandrababu Naidu's second term as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh (2014-2019). The TTD, under state oversight, faced explosive allegations from its chief priest, AV Ramana Dikshitulu. In a press conference, Dikshitulu claimed a rare pink diamond—estimated to be worth hundreds of crores—had vanished from Lord Balaji's sacred necklace. He linked it to a gem auctioned in Geneva for over Rs 500 crore, suggesting it was smuggled out under the guise of temple administration.
Dikshitulu didn't stop there. He accused the TTD board and higher authorities of systematic pilferage since 1996, with dozens of priceless ornaments disappearing. His revelations implicated the temple's management, which reported directly to Naidu's Telugu Desam Party (TDP) government.
The response was swift and severe. Within days, Dikshitulu was sacked from his position as chief priest, citing "administrative reasons." TTD officials dismissed the claims, insisting the "missing" stone was not a diamond but a chipped ruby. A judicial inquiry followed, but critics argue it was a whitewash.
Who Stole the Pink Diamond? Fingers Point to Temple Insiders and Political Cover-Up
No one was ever charged with theft—the case evaporated. But the allegations painted a damning picture: TTD officials as prime suspects with access to ornaments, and Chandrababu Naidu's administration accused of cover-up. This unfolded during the BJP-led NDA alliance with TDP, with RSS influence in temple affairs remaining silent.
Why the Silence? Media Amnesia and Political Convenience
Fast-forward to 2025: Naidu is back as CM, TDP-BJP alliance intact. The pink diamond? Barely a whisper. Electoral convenience and polarized media have buried the story.
Ghee, Laddus, and the Pink Diamond: Why Trivial Over Treasure?
The 2024 Tirupati laddu row dominated headlines with allegations of adulterated ghee, sparking massive outrage. Yet, the pink diamond merits no such fury.
| Issue | Value/Impact | Political Response | Media Coverage | Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pink Diamond (2018) | Rs 500+ crore; potential smuggling | Denied by TDP; priest sacked | Initial buzz, then silence | Buried in judicial "audit" |
| Ghee/Laddu Adulteration (2024) | Hygiene lapse; no financial loss | Naidu's accusations; BJP amplification | Non-stop outrage | Ongoing probes |
The contrast highlights selective outrage—food impurity targets rivals, while the diamond implicates allies.
Waking Up: Time for Truth Over Temple Politics
Devotees trust Tirumala with billions. The pink diamond is a betrayal of faith. Demand a fresh CBI probe. To RSS-BJP and TDP: Prioritize transparency. Don't let distractions bury injustices. The divine deserves justice.
Share this. Question your leaders. Wake up to the truth.
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