Hyderabad temple attack: Man hits Goddess idol with sticks, attacks priest; BJP demands action

The incident took place at the Santoshi Mata Temple near the Dilsukhnagar Bus Depot and was captured on CCTV.

The man allegedly entered the temple while the priest and devotees were present before attacking the priest and targeting the deity's idol.

Devotees intervene, hand man to police

People present at the temple intervened after noticing the alleged attack and caught the man before handing him over to the police.

Police detained the accused and registered a case. They are examining CCTV footage and gathering information from those present at the temple to establish the sequence of events.

Reports have identified the accused as Mohammed Ansari, although police have not yet established the motive behind the alleged attack.

Police are also conducting a medical examination and mental health assessment as part of the inquiry.

BJP leaders demand strict action

The incident drew reactions from BJP leaders in Telangana, who questioned temple security and demanded action following the alleged attack.

Telangana BJP president N Ramchander Rao criticised the state government over the incident and called for accountability.

His comments included allegations about the government's approach to religious issues; those claims have not been established by the police investigation.

Goshamahal MLA T Raja Singh called for an impartial investigation and demanded strict legal action if the accused is found guilty.

He also questioned the security arrangements at temples and the protection of devotees in Telangana.

Motive yet to be established

Police have not yet announced a confirmed motive for the alleged attack.

Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the man's entry into the temple and the events that followed.

The incident has also led to protests and demands from devotees and Hindu organisations for increased security at the temple and action against the accused.