Tirupati 'Prasadam Laddus' Case: N Chandrababu Naidu Govt Forms SIT To Probe Adulteration, YSRCP Reacts

The Andhra Pradesh government has established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the adulteration of ghee used in the preparation of 'prasadam Laddus' at the Tirupati Devasthanam. This decision follows an announcement made by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. Concerns were raised about the quality of ghee, with allegations suggesting the inclusion of animal fat.

Chief Minister Naidu, speaking from his Undavalli residence, emphasised the need for a thorough investigation into these allegations. He stated that an IG-level officer or higher would lead the SIT to examine any misuse of power and ensure such incidents are prevented in the future. "The government will take stringent action to ensure such incidents do not occur again," he said.

SIT Members and Responsibilities

The SIT is headed by Guntur Range IG Sarvashrestha Tripathi (IPS), with DIG Gopinadha Jetty and SP Harshavardhana Raju as members. Their task is to delve into the claims surrounding the ghee's quality used in making Tirumala's famous laddu prasadam. The investigation aims to uncover any wrongdoing and hold those responsible accountable.

Meanwhile, YSRCP leader Ambati Rambabu criticised the SIT probe, calling it inadequate. He argued for a Supreme Court-monitored investigation instead. "The chief minister's decision to order an inquiry through a DIG (IG) was laughable and insufficient... SIT probe is inadequate, the issue should be investigated under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court," Rambabu stated during a press conference.

Allegations Against YSRCP

Naidu accused the YSRCP regime of lowering procurement standards for ghee suppliers. He claimed they reduced required experience from three years to one and decreased minimum turnover from ₹250 crore to ₹150 crore. These changes allegedly led to inferior quality ghee being procured, which included beef and lard (pig fat).

The situation escalated when lab tests conducted by TTD revealed impurities in the ghee, including lard (pig fat). TTD Executive Officer J. Shyamala Rao confirmed that animal fat was found in multiple samples. This discovery prompted immediate action against the contractor responsible for supplying this adulterated ghee.

Santhi Homam Ritual

In response to these findings, Naidu announced a purification ceremony at Srivari temple on Monday. The Santhi Homam Panchagavya Prokshana ritual aimed to address concerns over desecration due to impure ghee usage in religious offerings.

This incident highlights ongoing tensions between political parties regarding procurement practices and religious sanctity at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam. As investigations continue under SIT leadership, many await further developments concerning accountability measures taken against those involved in this controversy.