Sat Sep 21 14:36:20 UTC 2024: ## Tirupati Laddu Controversy: TTD Reassures Devotees of Purity Amidst Ghee Adulteration Scandal

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), responsible for managing the renowned Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple at Tirumala, has declared that the sanctity of the famous “laddu prasadam” has been restored following the discovery of adulterated ghee. The TTD confirmed the presence of sub-standard ghee and traces of lard in samples tested for quality, acknowledging earlier allegations made by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu.

While the TTD has reassured devotees that the “divinity and purity” of the laddu offering is now unblemished, the scandal has sparked accusations against the previous YSRCP administration, with former CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy dismissing the issue as politically motivated. The central government has sought a report from the Andhra Pradesh government and promised appropriate action, with Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi calling for a thorough investigation.

The TTD has initiated action against the contractor responsible for supplying the adulterated ghee and is in the process of blacklisting them. Meanwhile, police have registered a case against seven social media users for spreading misinformation claiming that the adulterated ghee belonged to the Amul brand. The Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which markets Amul products, has denied supplying ghee to the TTD.

The controversy has raised concerns about the quality control measures at the temple, with devotees demanding stricter regulations to ensure the integrity of the sacred offerings. The TTD has emphasized its commitment to protecting the holiness of the laddu prasadam, pledging to maintain the trust and faith of devotees.

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