Police Overreach: Devotees Protest at Vijayawada Durga Temple Toll Gate Over Denied Darshan

Vijayawada, September 25, 2025: In a distressing turn of events, the conduct of police at the Vijayawada Indrakeeladri Durga Temple during the ongoing Dussehra Navaratri festivities has sparked widespread discontent among devotees. On the night of September 24, around 2,000 devotees staged a protest at the toll gate, alleging that they were unfairly denied darshan (sacred viewing) of Goddess Sri Annapurna Devi. The devotees demanded access to the temple, expressing anguish over what they described as arbitrary actions by the police. The incident left many devotees in tears as they were forced to return without fulfilling their spiritual quest.

Background of the Incident

During the Dussehra Navaratri festival, the deity at Durga Temple is adorned in various forms each day, attracting thousands of devotees. On September 25, the Goddess was presented in the form of Sri Annapurna Devi. Eager to witness this divine form, a large number of devotees gathered at the toll gate by 9:30 PM on September 24, anticipating darshan, which typically begins after midnight as per temple guidelines.

However, the police halted the devotees at the toll gate itself. According to the protesters, the authorities prioritized transporting some devotees in police vehicles for darshan, leaving the majority stranded without access. “We arrived at 9:30 PM, but the police stopped us and took others in their vehicles, denying us our chance for darshan,” lamented one devotee, highlighting the frustration felt by many.

Devotees’ Protest and Outrage Against Police

The situation escalated around midnight as approximately 2,000 devotees gathered at the toll gate, raising slogans and demanding access to the temple. Tensions ran high as some devotees engaged in heated arguments with the police, accusing them of high-handedness. Reports also surfaced that police personnel used harsh language while addressing the devotees, further fueling their anger.

As the protests intensified, the police forcibly dispersed the crowd, compelling many devotees to return without darshan. Overwhelmed with disappointment, several devotees expressed their grief, some even breaking down in tears. “We waited all night for Ammavaru’s darshan, but the police’s overzealous actions robbed us of this opportunity. This is an insult to our faith,” said a female devotee, reflecting the collective sentiment.

Police’s Defense

Police officials, responding to the allegations, claimed their actions were driven by the need to ensure devotees’ safety and manage the crowd effectively. “During Navaratri, we follow guidelines to regulate the massive influx of devotees. We transported some devotees in police vehicles to ensure smooth conduct of the festival,” stated a senior police official. However, devotees rejected this explanation, asserting that the police’s actions were unwarranted and discriminatory.

Devotees’ Grief and Call for Future Measures

The incident has not only upset devotees but also sparked discussions among locals. “While it’s important for police to ensure safety, they must respect devotees’ sentiments and not obstruct darshan,” said a local resident. Temple authorities are reportedly reviewing the incident, and sources indicate that police and temple officials will hold discussions to better manage devotee crowds in the coming days.

The Navaratri festival is a time of devotion and unity, and this incident underscores the need for authorities to handle devotees’ sentiments with greater sensitivity. Hindutone urges officials to take steps to prevent such occurrences in the future, ensuring a harmonious and fulfilling experience for all devotees.

(This news report is based on information received from devotees and available details. For further information, please contact Durga Temple authorities.)

Hindutone Team www.hindutone.com

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