Fri Sep 20 19:53:33 UTC 2024: ## Political Row Erupts Over Alleged Adulteration of Tirupati Laddus
A political storm has erupted in Andhra Pradesh over allegations that animal fat was used in the making of Tirupati laddus, a sacred offering at the world-renowned Sri Venkateshwara temple.
The controversy was sparked by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s claims that the use of animal fat occurred during the previous government. While the YSRCP, the current ruling party, vehemently denies the allegations, they accuse Naidu of using the issue for political gain.
The TDP, Naidu’s party, has presented a lab report purportedly showing the presence of “foreign fat” like beef tallow, lard, and fish oil in ghee samples used for the laddus. The report, dated July 16, 2024, based on samples taken on July 9, has been widely circulated on social media.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has weighed in on the issue, calling the allegations “disturbing” and emphasizing the need for authorities to protect the sanctity of religious spaces. The Congress has demanded a full-fledged investigation into the matter, stating that while those responsible should be punished if the claims are true, those who spread false allegations will face the wrath of millions of devotees.
Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera cautioned that allowing such polarizing conspiracy theories to spread during the election season could be politically motivated.
The TDP has claimed that a Gujarat-based laboratory confirmed the adulteration in ghee samples provided by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the temple.
The controversy has created a major political rift in Andhra Pradesh, with both sides accusing each other of manipulating the issue for political mileage.
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