Laddu is burning in the hearts of devotees

Tirupati: A controversy erupted over the adulteration of cow ghee with animal fats, which reverberated beyond the state and across the country and even abroad, touching the sentiments of lakhs of devotees of Lord Venkateswara. The matter came to light after Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu released the NDDB calf lab report confirming adulteration, which provoked strong reactions from the Hindu community.

While some felt that the government should take corrective measures privately without publicizing the matter, others expressed their anger over the situation at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) in the last five years. The split in public opinion reflects the scandal’s deep emotional impact on staunch devotees.

Political parties have seized on the issue, each taking a stand to suit their interests. The NDA parties have been critical of the previous YSRCP government, accusing it of tarnishing the image of the venerable religious institution. In contrast, the YSRCP denied the allegations and questioned the political motives behind the Chief Minister’s statements.

Meanwhile, the Congress and the Left parties raised concerns as to why the report was withheld for two months.

Amid controversies, former TTD executive officer AV Dharma Reddy came under scrutiny due to his close ties with former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Dharma Reddy’s influence on the administration of TTD during the previous government has now become the focal point of the latest vigilance inquiry into the decisions of TTD.

It is believed that unadulterated quality cow ghee fetches Rs.320 while the market price of pure ghee is around Rs.600 for all reliable brands. The previous TTD administration had controversially rejected Nandini ghee from the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF), known for its quality, due to its high cost, opting instead for a lower-cost alternative. The NDA government offered to reinstate KMF as a supplier.

Demands for a full-scale investigation are increasing as various parties demand a transparent investigation. While some support a CBI probe, others want an inquiry led by a sitting judge of the Supreme Court. As the central government has now sought a report from the state, a decision on the nature of the inquiry is likely to be taken soon.

The meeting to be held between the TTD Executive Officer and the Chief Minister on Saturday evening will be crucial in shaping the next steps in this dispute. It is learned that the CM has already ordered the TTD to clean the Srivari temple following all Agama rules to instill faith in the devotees.