Hyderabad, October 3, 2026: Police have taken a man into custody after an alleged attack on the idol of Goddess Santoshi Mata at a temple in Hyderabad’s Dilsukhnagar area. The incident occurred on Friday morning while prayers were underway, prompting intervention by devotees and a police investigation.
The incident took place at Sri Santoshi Mata Temple near the Dilsukhnagar Bus Depot. According to reports, the man allegedly entered the temple’s sanctum and threw sticks at the deity’s idol. A priest and devotees were present at the time.
People at the temple intervened and apprehended the man before handing him over to the police. CCTV footage of the incident has also circulated online. Police are examining the available evidence to establish exactly what happened and determine the circumstances behind the alleged act.
Police Register Case, Begin Investigation
Chaitanyapuri Police registered a case following a complaint from the temple committee. The man was taken into custody, and investigators have begun collecting evidence and statements from people present at the temple.
Officials are examining CCTV recordings and other material as part of the inquiry. Police have not publicly established a motive for the alleged attack. Reports also indicate that the accused is undergoing medical examination and a mental health assessment.
The investigation is expected to clarify the sequence of events, including how the man entered the temple and what happened before devotees intervened. The allegations against him remain subject to the legal process.
Devotees and Organisations Demand Action
The incident led to concern among devotees and members of local Hindu organisations, some of whom gathered at the temple and demanded strict legal action. They also called for stronger security arrangements to prevent similar incidents.
The temple committee’s complaint reportedly stated that the alleged act damaged the idol and disturbed the ongoing religious gathering. Police are investigating the complaint and will determine the applicable legal provisions based on the evidence.
Authorities have urged people to maintain calm and allow the investigation to proceed through legal channels.
Political Leaders React to the Incident
The incident drew responses from several BJP leaders in Telangana. Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar said he had spoken with the Hyderabad Police Commissioner and called for an immediate investigation and firm action against those found responsible.
Telangana BJP president N. Ramchander Rao also condemned the alleged incident and questioned the security arrangements at religious places. Goshamahal MLA T. Raja Singh called for an impartial investigation and legal action if the allegations are established.
Some political statements also criticised the state government’s approach to religious issues. These comments reflect the leaders’ political positions and are separate from the police investigation, which has not yet determined the motive.
CCTV Footage Under Examination
The circulation of video footage has brought wider attention to the incident. However, investigators must verify the recording and consider witness statements and other evidence before drawing conclusions about the full sequence of events.
Police are continuing to investigate the case, including the circumstances surrounding the man’s entry into the temple and the alleged damage to the idol. The identity and role of everyone involved will be established through the inquiry.
The incident has renewed discussion about security at places of worship in Hyderabad. Further details are expected as police complete their investigation and decide on the next legal steps.
