The Supreme Court’s interim orders on Aadhaar linkage have upset the plans of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) which was all set to introduce the Aadhaar-linked ‘time slot’ system in the free darshan of Lord Venkateswara.
The TTD had also incorporated a provision for mentioning of the 12-digit Aadhaar number in its online application and had planned to launch the system on March 18, coinciding with the Ugadi festival.
The main intention was to check impersonation besides enabling the devotees to have a hassle-free and quick darshan of the deity.
On normal days, the waiting time for the common pilgrims is between eight and ten hours, but on holidays and festive occasions, it stretches to 18 hours or more.
TTD Executive officer Anil Kumar Singhal resolved to introduce the system after mulling over the issue for more than four months.
Looking for alternatives
The apex court’s interim orders have forced the TTD to find a viable alternative for the immediate launch of its ambitious scheme.
According to sources, the management will either make the voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India or the ration card issued by the State governments mandatory for securing the online dharma darshan tickets.
Meanwhile, hectic consultations are also being held with Tata Consultancy Services, the vital technical service providers to the TTD, to find a way out.
