VIJAYAWADA: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) Andhra Pradesh unit has strongly criticised the suspension of non-Hindu employees working in secular institutions such as schools and hospitals managed by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), calling the move unconstitutional and discriminatory.
In a statement, CPM State secretary V Srinivasa Rao urged the State government to withdraw the suspensions and protect the constitutional rights and job security of affected workers.
The party said the action violates a government memorandum issued on January 24, 2025, by the Endowments Department.
It emphasised that religious institutions and the secular institutions under their administration, such as educational and medical facilities, should be treated separately.
While religious roles like priests may require specific criteria, the party argued that recruitment for secular roles must follow standard government norms without religious discrimination.
The CPM termed the removal of employees on religious grounds from secular roles as unlawful, inhumane, and a violation of constitutional rights, particularly for long-serving workers who were appointed under previous rules.
Citing past court rulings and stay orders that have opposed such removals, the party warned that these actions could trigger new controversies and social unrest. It also accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of promoting a divisive agenda by fueling religious hatred.
The CPM further criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for allegedly using religion for political gains while remaining silent on caste-based discrimination within temple practices. It accused the party of reinforcing the caste system under the guise of ‘Manudharma’. The party demanded equal opportunities in temple priesthood and access to all castes and genders, condemning the continued practice of untouchability.