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TTD Laddu - Political Row Deepens Over Adulteration Claims - The India Print, TheIndiaPrint, ThePrint
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TTD Laddu – Political Row Deepens Over Adulteration Claims

TTD Laddu – The debate over alleged adulteration in the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams laddu has intensified after fresh political exchanges between the ruling government in Andhra Pradesh and the opposition YSR Congress Party.

Ttd laddu adulteration row

YSR Congress Party leader Gudivada Amarnath on Friday raised questions about the state government’s handling of the investigation into claims that the famed Tirumala laddu was prepared using ghee containing animal fat. Referring to findings submitted by a Special Investigation Team, he asked why there was a need for further committees when the SIT report did not confirm the presence of animal fat in the sweet prasadam distributed at the temple.

Opposition Seeks Clarity After SIT Findings

Amarnath said the SIT, which was formed following directions from the Supreme Court and functioned under its oversight, did not report any evidence of animal fat in the laddus. In light of this, he questioned the rationale behind discussions of setting up another committee. According to him, forming additional panels after a conclusive report raises concerns about whether the issue is being prolonged for political reasons.

He also suggested that repeated references to animal fat, despite the SIT’s findings, could mislead devotees and the public. The Tirumala laddu, offered at the Sri Venkateswara Temple, holds deep religious significance, and allegations surrounding its preparation have sparked widespread attention.

Investigation Details and CBI Role

The controversy prompted intervention at the national level. Acting on instructions from the Supreme Court, the Central Bureau of Investigation constituted a Special Investigation Team to examine the claims thoroughly. The SIT’s remand report confirmed that the ghee supplied to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams had been adulterated.

According to investigators, certain dairy suppliers were linked to the case. The report identified irregularities in the composition of the ghee, stating that it was mixed with palm oil, palm kernel oil and other additives, including beta-carotene, acetic acid ester and artificial flavouring agents typically associated with processed ghee. However, the document did not mention the use of animal fat in the adulterated mixture.

The distinction has become central to the political dispute, as initial public statements had referred to the possibility of animal fat being present in the temple offering.

Chief Minister Defends Government’s Position

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has maintained that concerns about adulterated ghee were based on official reports. Earlier this week, he cited findings from the National Dairy Development Board, saying the report pointed to adulteration in the laddu preparation process.

The Chief Minister said the government’s actions were aimed at preserving the sanctity of the Tirumala temple and ensuring that devotees receive prasadam prepared according to established standards. He rejected accusations that the issue was being used for political gain.

Naidu also responded to criticism from the YSR Congress Party, stating that allegations against him were an attempt to divert attention from the controversy. He said that even after the SIT was formed and submitted its findings, political attacks continued.

Religious Sentiment and Political Tensions

The Tirumala temple, one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India, attracts millions of devotees each year. Any controversy linked to its rituals or offerings carries significant emotional weight. Both the ruling party and the opposition have referred to the need to protect the sanctity of the temple while disputing each other’s claims.

Naidu emphasized that he visits the temple as a devotee and respects its traditions. He accused political opponents of turning a sensitive religious matter into a political issue. Meanwhile, the opposition insists that clarity from official reports should guide public statements and further action.

As investigations continue and political exchanges persist, the focus remains on ensuring transparency in the supply chain and restoring public confidence in the preparation of the Tirumala laddu. Authorities have indicated that steps are being taken to tighten quality checks and prevent similar controversies in the future.

 

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