HR&CE Minister Ramesh carried out a surprise inspection at the Tiruchendur Subramaniya Swamy Temple in Thoothukudi district by arriving like an ordinary devotee, wearing a mask and casual clothes, without prior notice to officials.
According to the report, while observing the crowd near the Shanmuga Vilasam mandapam around 6 am, a priest approached him and offered “fast darshan” in return for money. When the minister asked about the arrangement, the priest allegedly demanded Rs 1,000 per person and even suggested sending the amount via GPay.
The minister then transferred Rs 1,000 online and was taken through a shortcut route. Two security personnel on duty—retired servicemen—reportedly opened locked iron gates to facilitate the entry.
After proceeding inside, the minister removed his mask, revealed his identity and questioned the collection of money for darshan. He directed temple officials to take action, following which the priest was barred from performing pooja and other temple services, and the two guards were dismissed. Devotees welcomed the surprise inspection and the swift action.
The report also said the minister later inspected the annadhanam hall, ate breakfast with devotees, and held discussions with officials at the joint commissioner’s office as the Vaikasi Visakam festival draws larger crowds to the temple.
