Man held for using duplicate keys to allow devotees worship at Arunachaleswarar temple in Tiruvannamalai

A 38-year-old man was arrested for using double keys to take devotees to worship at the Arunachaleswarar temple in Tiruvannamalai on Thursday.

The arrested person has been identified as N. Saranraj, a resident of Vengaikaal under Tiruvannamalai Corporation, police said. He was working as a tourist guide in the region. Initial investigation revealed that Saranraj was taking devotees, especially from distant places, to temples and ashrams in the town. He also guides tourists to visit Arunachaleswarar temple, especially on weekends.

Police said Saranraj managed to get a copy of the key to the western entrance of the temple to reach the sanctum directly. Using the duplicate key, he opened the door and guided a small group of devotees for worship.

Police said temple officials monitoring CCTV cameras in the control room at the temple saw the footage and informed senior temple officials. Based on a complaint, Tiruvannamalai town police registered a case. The detained person was sent to the district prison. Additional investigation is ongoing.