Hyderabad: Following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Army personnel began checking the identity of devotees to visit Kali Temple in Bandlaguda Jagir on defense land. Checks began a week ago as a preventive safety measure.
The temple usually sees large gatherings on Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays. Security personnel have been stationed in parking lots and temple entrances to verify the Aadhaar card. Devotees without Aadhaar were asked to make alternative identity documents to confirm their local identity.
After the announcement of these measures, most devotees began carrying their Aadhaar cards, while those who did not understand the new rules have shown other forms of identification.
Temple security personnel said that while in the temple, ID verification was being carried out from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. “The devotees are collaborating and willing to show their ID proof. So far, there has been no argument or resistance.”
The temple's regular visitor P. Raghunath welcomes the measure. “It's a good move. The temple is located in a defensive area and attracts a large crowd. Security checks are crucial.” Another devotee, J. Mounika, was surprised by the sudden check. “I visit this temple regularly, not earlier. I learned it was for security reasons. I didn't carry a paper copy, but they accepted the digital version on their phones.”
If the group arrives and not all members have proof of identity, security personnel are constantly verifying the ID of at least one member to enter.
Kali Temple was renovated in May 2022. “Animal sacrifices in the temple have been banned for the past 30 years. Devotees now display animals outside and perform rituals in private function halls. Alcohol is also banned in temple halls and related halls,” Ch said. Narasimha Goud, a local resident.
