Tirumala Parakamani Theft Case: Full Legal Analysis, Investigation, and Current Status (2023–2026)
The Tirumala Parakamani theft case has emerged as one of the most controversial and legally complex temple-related criminal cases in India in recent years. What initially appeared to be a minor theft involving foreign currency worth approximately ₹76,000 has evolved into a major legal issue involving multi-crore asset transfers, High Court intervention, CID and ACB investigations, and the suspicious death of a key complainant.
Background of the Case (April 2023)
The case originated in April 2023 at the Tirumala Parakamani center, where offerings made by devotees are counted and recorded. Ravikumar, a clerk working under the Pedda Jeeyar Mutt and associated with temple operations, was caught stealing foreign currency donations.
Specifically, he was caught red-handed attempting to steal $920 (approximately ₹76,000). CCTV footage reportedly captured him hiding bundles of currency inside his undergarments. This evidence became the foundation of the criminal complaint.
The complaint was formally lodged by then Assistant Vigilance and Security Officer (AVSO), Y. Satish Kumar, initiating criminal proceedings.
Lok Adalat Settlement and Controversy (September 2023)
One of the most controversial aspects of this case was its unexpected settlement through Lok Adalat in September 2023. Lok Adalat is generally meant for amicable settlement of civil disputes and compoundable criminal cases, but its use in this case raised significant legal concerns.
During the settlement, Ravikumar admitted his wrongdoing and transferred seven immovable properties located in Tirupati and Chennai to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
The total estimated value of these properties was approximately ₹14.5 crore.
This created serious legal and public suspicion, as the stolen amount was only ₹76,000. The disproportionate asset transfer raised questions about:
- The actual source of Ravikumar’s wealth
- Whether the theft involved larger undisclosed amounts
- Whether Lok Adalat was misused to suppress a larger criminal conspiracy
High Court Intervention and CID Investigation (2025)
Concerned by the unusual settlement, journalist Macharla Srinivas filed a petition before the Andhra Pradesh High Court, challenging the Lok Adalat decision.
After reviewing the case, the High Court found sufficient grounds to question the legality and propriety of the settlement.
In October 2025, the High Court took the following critical legal steps:
- Ordered a fresh investigation by the Crime Investigation Department (CID)
- Directed the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to investigate Ravikumar’s assets
- Placed the investigation under judicial supervision
The CID also questioned several senior former TTD officials, including former TTD Chairman Y.V. Subba Reddy, former Chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, and former Executive Officer Dharma Reddy.
Suspicious Death of Key Complainant (November 2025)
One of the most alarming developments in the case was the death of the original complainant, Satish Kumar.
He was found dead on railway tracks in Anantapur district while traveling by train in November 2025.
Initially, the death appeared suspicious. However, the post-mortem report revealed a severe head injury, confirming that the death was a homicide.
This shocking development transformed the case into a much more serious criminal investigation involving possible conspiracy and witness intimidation.
The Andhra Pradesh High Court took serious note of this development and ordered the CID to expedite the murder investigation.
Current Legal Status as of February 2026
As of February 2026, the case remains under active investigation by CID and ACB under the supervision of the Andhra Pradesh High Court.
The investigating agencies have submitted preliminary reports to the High Court in sealed cover.
Additionally, Ravikumar recently released a public video statement claiming that:
- He voluntarily donated his properties as an act of repentance
- He was not coerced or threatened by anyone
However, the credibility of this statement remains subject to investigation.
Technological Reforms Ordered by the High Court
In response to the incident, the High Court also ordered major systemic reforms in temple donation counting procedures.
The court directed TTD to implement:
- Artificial Intelligence-based monitoring systems
- Automated counting machines
- Reduced human intervention
- Enhanced surveillance mechanisms
These reforms aim to prevent future theft and ensure transparency.
Key Case Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Accused | Ravikumar (Temple clerk) |
| Stolen Amount | $920 (Approx ₹76,000) |
| Settlement Value | ₹14.5 crore (7 properties) |
| Investigation Agency | CID and ACB |
| Supervising Authority | Andhra Pradesh High Court |
| Major Development | Murder of complainant Satish Kumar |
| Current Status | Investigation ongoing (2026) |
Legal Implications and Importance
This case has far-reaching legal implications, including:
- Misuse of Lok Adalat in criminal matters
- Unexplained wealth and disproportionate assets
- Witness safety and protection
- Judicial oversight of temple administration
- Criminal conspiracy and corruption investigation
The outcome of this case could establish important legal precedents regarding criminal settlement limits and temple administration accountability.
Conclusion
The Tirumala Parakamani theft case has evolved from a simple theft case into a complex criminal investigation involving serious legal, ethical, and institutional questions.
With CID and ACB investigations ongoing under High Court supervision, the final outcome may reveal deeper systemic issues and establish significant legal precedent in temple administration and criminal justice.
Published by: Pavan Law Chambers
Website: http://pavanlawchambers.blogspot.com/
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