Tirupati Laddu Controversy: TDP Supports Supreme Court Inquiry Amid YSRCP Criticism

The Supreme Court has raised several questions regarding the Tirupati laddu controversy involving the Andhra Pradesh government. The ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) maintains its stance on the issue and is open to a central investigation, despite an ongoing probe by a Special Investigation Team (SIT). The opposition YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) criticised the TDP, claiming that the controversy has caused global distress.

Controversy Over Tirupati Laddu Ingredients

TDP leaders have alleged that adulterated ghee was used in making the renowned Tirupati laddus. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu recently made these claims. TDP Spokesperson Pattabhi Ram Kommareddy stated, "We stand by whatever we have placed before the public. There is no going back... 100 percent it adulterated ghee was used, we have enough evidence to prove."

The Supreme Court questioned Chief Minister Naidu's public statement alleging animal fat was used in the laddus during the previous Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy-led regime. The court noted that the laboratory test report was unclear and seemed to indicate that rejected ghee was tested. "It is very clear from the report that this is not the ghee which has been used," remarked Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan.

YSRCP's Response to Allegations

YSRCP leader B Karunakar Reddy, a former chairman of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), accused the TDP-led government of involving God in politics, despite appeals against it. He stated, "The heinous publicity made over the laddu prasadam issue has intensely hurt the entire world." Another YSRCP leader, V Srinivas Rao, demanded an apology from Naidu for his remarks on Tirumala prasadam.

The Supreme Court asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta for assistance in deciding whether the SIT should continue its investigation or if an independent agency should take over. The court's inquiry into whether central agencies should be involved has been welcomed by TDP spokesperson Jyoshna Tirunagari, who reiterated that the matter is sub-judice.

Call for Evidence and Apology

YSRCP leader Roja Selvamani highlighted that the Supreme Court sought evidence regarding ghee adulteration. Meanwhile, Srinivas Rao pointed out that even the government's lawyer clarified in court that the ghee used was not adulterated, contradicting Naidu’s allegations. The opposition continues to press for accountability and clarity on this sensitive issue.

The Andhra Pradesh government expressed willingness to cooperate with any decision made by the Supreme Court regarding further investigations. They emphasised their commitment to ensuring those responsible are held accountable. This ongoing controversy continues to stir political tensions in Andhra Pradesh, with both parties standing firm on their respective claims.