Addressing the gathering, Mr. Naidu said the alleged adulteration had occurred at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), one of the country’s most revered temple institutions, and claimed that similar supplies were sent to the Srisailam temple during the same period. He said the issue went beyond administrative lapses and amounted to a serious breach of devotees’ faith. “This is not a political matter but one concerning religious sanctity,” he said, adding that the reputation of Lord Venkateswara Swamy had been harmed.
The Chief Minister cited a report by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), claiming it pointed to the presence of animal fat in the ghee supplied for laddu preparation. He also referred to a 2022 report by the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), alleging that despite its findings on adulteration, corrective action was not taken by the previous government. Mr. Naidu said his administration had initiated reforms at TTD, asserting that there was a “clear and visible difference” between laddus prepared earlier and those being made now.
Mr. Naidu announced the formation of a one-member committee to oversee corrective measures and said those responsible for the alleged adulteration would be held accountable. He dismissed claims by YSRCP leaders that a CBI-led Special Investigation Team had cleared the matter, stating that no such report had exonerated the party.
Responding to the allegations, YSRCP MP Y. V. Subba Reddy denied that animal fat was used in the ghee. He said the 2022 CFTRI report had flagged adulteration but did not mention animal-derived substances. Mr. Subba Reddy also rejected allegations of a cover-up, arguing that samples were officially sent for testing and that a CBI-led SIT had examined the issue. He accused the State government of reviving the controversy for political reasons and using hoardings and public statements to defame the YSRCP.
The controversy has renewed scrutiny of procurement and quality control processes at major temple institutions. While the State government maintains that corrective steps are underway, opposition leaders insist the allegations lack documentary proof. The issue is expected to remain in focus as political and administrative responses unfold.
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