Insta
Shiva Lingam - Representative Image (Senthilvael/Wikimedia Commons)
Three custodians of an ancient 15th century Shiva temple were murdered inside the temple complex in the early hours of Monday (16 July), The Hindu has reported.
Their bodies were discovered by the villagers in the morning, following which the police was alerted.
The deceased identified as 70-year-old S Shivaramireddy, his elder sister Kadapala Kamalamma, and 70-year-old Satya Lakshmiamma, used to stay inside the temple complex, located in Anantapur district’s Korthikota village.
Shivaramireddy was the temple priest and is survived by his wife and three children who stay in Madanapalli.
The unidentified assailants are believed to have entered the temple premises post midnight and slit the throats of the three custodians. The report claims that the killers also sprinkled blood on the Shiva Lingam and a few anthills.
Locals believe that the assailants could have been treasure hunters, spurred on by a local legend. Reports have also hinted at the possibility of human sacrifice.
Kadiri Rural Circle Inspector T Madhu has stated that the temple was currently undergoing renovation and 4-5 people may be involved in the murders. While the investigation is underway, no arrests have been made so far.
Support Swarajya's 50 Ground Reports Project & Sponsor A Story
Every general election Swarajya does a 50 ground reports project.
Aimed only at serious readers and those who appreciate the nuances of political undercurrents, the project provides a sense of India's electoral landscape. As you know, these reports are produced after considerable investment of travel, time and effort on the ground.
This time too we've kicked off the project in style and have covered over 30 constituencies already. If you're someone who appreciates such work and have enjoyed our coverage please consider sponsoring a ground report for just Rs 2999 to Rs 19,999 - it goes a long way in helping us produce more quality reportage.
You can also back this project by becoming a subscriber for as little as Rs 999 - so do click on this links and choose a plan that suits you and back us.
Click below to contribute.
Latest