Amid row, Tirupati temple forms committee to examine ghee quality
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has formed a four-member committee to examine the quality of ghee used in its prasad laddoos. This decision comes after a report from the Centre of Analysis and Learning in Livestock and Food—part of the National Dairy Development Board in Gujarat—confirmed the presence of animal fat in the ghee used for the laddoos during the YSRCP's government, including traces of fish oil, beef tallow, and lard.
Committee to advise on procurement terms for quality ghee
The committee, comprising dairy experts Dr Surendranath, Dr Vijay Bhaskar Reddy, Dr Swarnalatha, and Dr Mahadevan, is expected to submit their findings within a week. The committee's role will also include advising on terms and conditions for procuring quality ghee in future tenders. TTD Executive Officer J Syamala Rao warned contractors of severe consequences if they supply adulterated or low-quality ghee.
Rao admits to limitations in ghee procurement process
"Ghee suppliers were directed to supply only quality ghee to TTD and one of the companies which was found supplying adulterated ghee as found in the NABL test report, was issued a showcase notice for blacklisting," he said. Rao acknowledged that there are limitations and constraints in the systems for processing raw materials and ghee through procurement due to a lack of adulteration testing equipment. He added the need for such equipment to ensure quality control.
Political blame game
The controversy has also sparked a political blame game in Andhra Pradesh. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu accused the previous YSRCP government of using animal fat and substandard ingredients in making the Tirupati laddoo. In response, YSRCP termed Naidu's allegation as "malicious" and said that he would "stoop to any level for political gain."
Calls for CBI probe
The Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president YS Sharmila has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the matter. Simultaneously, senior YSRCP leader and Rajya Sabha member YV Subba Reddy threatened legal action against Naidu if he fails to substantiate his allegations. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) also termed Naidu's accusation a "serious issue" and called for strict action against those responsible.
