Tirumala, May 15: The office of the temple deputy executive officer today cancelled several Vastram Seva tickets which had been booked under the `advance reservation’ system.
According to sources, deputy executive officer Gopalakrishna issued special orders cancelling the tickets of 12 members, who had repeatedly booked the tickets on a single name and giving the same address. “All the 12 people booked many tickets and, as per the recent TTD decision and directions from the State government, we have cancelled all except the first ticket,’’ an official said on the condition of anonymity.
“The cancellation of tickets for Vastram, Abhishekam, Archana, Thomala and some other sevas started today,’’ E Gopalakrishna said and added that the 12 persons would not be allowed this year either for Vastram or Abhishekam. They will, however, get back the money.
Cheques and demand drafts for the refund money are ready for some more cancelled tickets. “Since huge money is involved, we have to take prior permission for the refund from the accounts department and from the executive officer,’’ an official said. Under the advance reservation system, the staff of Arjitam office booked 2032 tickets.
According to a report, only about 18 to 22 per cent of the tickets are genuine and the rest were booked after taking bribes or as a favour. The CID might be entrusted with the investigation.
–Agencies