Amaravati, February 11, 2026: Kakinada district has banned special passes for VIPs and VVIPs during Mahashivaratri celebrations at prominent temples, including Sri Chalukya Kumararama Bhimeswara Swamy Temple in Samalkota and Pithapuram Padagaya Temple.
District Collector Shan Mohan Sagili announced the move follows directives from the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and State Chief Secretary to ensure equal access. Protocol darshan for VIPs is restricted to 1 pm–3 pm only; at other times, they must join general queues.
With over one lakh devotees expected per temple from February 13–18, officials emphasize crowd management, sanitation, water, food, and queue systems to avoid inconvenience.
