“Attack on Faith Must Be Condemned Unitedly”: Deputy CM on TTD Laddu Ghee Controversy
The alleged adulteration of ghee used in the preparation of Tirumala’s famed laddu prasadam was raised prominently in the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly, where Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan described the issue as a serious matter concerning faith and accountability.
Participating in the discussion, he stated that any perceived attack on religious traditions must be condemned collectively, beyond differences of language, caste or region. He said failure to respond firmly could encourage repetition of similar incidents.
Reference to NDDB and SIT Findings
During the debate, the Deputy CM referred to reported findings attributed to the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), which allegedly indicated the presence of animal fat in samples linked to ghee supplies. He also cited conclusions of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which reportedly stated that certain consignments did not contain pure ghee as claimed.
According to the remarks made in the House, there were questions raised about whether dairy inputs were properly used in the production process and whether established procurement norms were followed.
Call for Accountability
Describing the alleged use of adulterated ghee in a sacred offering as a “grave offence,” the Deputy CM said strict action must be taken if wrongdoing is established. He argued that those responsible, including individuals associated with previous administrative decisions, should be held accountable under the law.
He further asserted that misuse of funds or materials connected to religious institutions amounts to a betrayal of public trust and devotional sentiment.
Political and Administrative Context
The issue has triggered political exchanges, with members across party lines debating administrative oversight, procurement systems, and quality control mechanisms within temple management bodies. The Deputy CM alleged that certain irregularities may have been systematic and planned.
Opposition members have sought clarity on the scope of the investigation and demanded that conclusions be based strictly on verified laboratory evidence and procedural findings.
Legal and Institutional Follow-Up
Officials have indicated that investigative processes are ongoing and that final conclusions will depend on comprehensive forensic analysis and documentation review. Authorities are expected to present detailed reports once all testing and verification procedures are completed.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which administers the temple and its prasadam preparation, has not publicly issued a fresh statement following the Assembly debate. However, internal quality protocols and supplier vetting processes are understood to be under scrutiny.
Wider Implications
The controversy has sparked discussion beyond the Assembly, with religious groups and civil society organisations calling for transparent disclosure of findings. Experts note that food safety compliance in temple kitchens is subject to both religious norms and statutory standards.
As investigations proceed, the focus remains on establishing factual clarity and ensuring that public confidence in institutional processes is maintained.
#NoGheeInTTDLaddu #SanatanDharmaRakshaBoard
