A political controversy has erupted following N. Chandrababu Naidu’s accusation that the previous YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government in Andhra Pradesh used animal fat in the sacred Tirupati laddoos, igniting outrage among religious leaders and political parties demanding clarification.
The Tirupati laddoo, known as the ‘Srivari Laddoo,’ has been a central offering at the temple for over 300 years and is believed to be Lord Venkateswara’s favorite. According to reports, the laddoos remain fresh for up to 15 days due to advanced packaging techniques. Daily production involves substantial quantities of ingredients, including nearly one tonne of besan flour, 10 tonnes of sugar, and 300 to 500 liters of ghee.
Naidu, during an NDA legislative meeting, claimed that the previous government used substandard ingredients, including animal fat, in the laddoos. In response, the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) labeled Naidu’s allegations as “heinous” and politically motivated.
The TDP spokesperson, Anam Venkata Ramana Reddy, presented purported lab results indicating the presence of beef tallow, lard, and fish oil in ghee samples provided by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). Nara Lokesh, Naidu’s son, emphasized that the reports confirmed the use of animal fat, expressing shock that such practices could occur in a temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara.
BJP chief JP Nadda reached out to Naidu for further details on the allegations, stating that appropriate actions would be taken in line with food safety regulations.
The lab report, from the National Dairy Development Board, claimed that animal fats were present in the ghee used for the laddoos, leading to calls for a thorough investigation. However, the YSRCP, including Reddy and other senior leaders, dismissed the allegations, asserting that the ghee is sourced from NABL-certified suppliers and undergoes rigorous testing.
In light of the escalating controversy, the Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee has called for a CBI investigation, while BJP leaders demanded immediate inquiries into the allegations, emphasizing the impact on religious sentiments.
Reports indicate that the TTD purchases ghee through e-tenders and that the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) has not supplied ghee to the TTD for four years due to pricing issues. Amul also clarified it has never supplied ghee to the TTD, despite social media claims to the contrary.
The controversy has reached the courts, with a senior YSRCP leader filing a petition in the Andhra Pradesh High Court to uncover the truth regarding the alleged use of animal fat in the laddoos. A petition has also been filed in the Supreme Court, claiming violations of fundamental Hindu customs and sentiments.