TIRUPATI: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the world's richest Hindu temple body, is in the process of getting the World Health Organisation (WHO) recognition for Tirumala as a 'No Tobacco zone.'
As per State Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments Act, consumption of liquor and non-vegetarian food as well as smoking of cigarettes and consumption of tobacco in any form is strictly prohibited in and around the temple. This rule is being implemented by the TTD in totality for several decades now.
Every day, hundreds of security guards posted at Alipiri check-point as well as on the twin pedestrian routes leading to Tirumala conduct extensive baggage screening to ensure no prohibited substance including tobacco products is carried to Tirumala as it is believed to affect the sanctity of the holy hill town.
The world renowned Vaishno Devi shrine at Jammu had recently received the WHO's recognition as tobacco-free region.
Following directions from the state government, the TTD is now trying to get a similar 'Tobacco free region' tag for Tirumala.
