Thu Sep 19 17:09:15 UTC 2024: ## Tirupati Laddu Scandal Rocks Andhra Pradesh: Animal Fat Found in Prasad, Says Naidu

**Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh:** A political storm has erupted in Andhra Pradesh after a lab report revealed the presence of animal fat, including beef tallow and fish oil, in the ghee used to make the iconic Tirupati laddu prasadam during the previous YSRCP government. The revelation has sparked outrage and accusations of disrespecting religious sentiments.

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, during a party meeting, alleged that the laddu was made with substandard ingredients and animal fat during the YSRCP’s term. The report, from the Centre of Analysis and Learning in Livestock and Food (CALF) lab at Gujarat’s National Dairy Development Board, confirmed the presence of fish oil, beef tallow, and lard (pork fat) in the ghee used to produce the famed prasadam.

The Tirupati laddu is distributed at the revered Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati, which is run by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The revelation has led to widespread condemnation, with state IT minister Nara Lokesh calling it a shocking and disrespectful act.

The YSRCP, however, has rejected the claims, denying any wrongdoing. The controversy is expected to escalate further, with political ramifications for both parties.

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