On September 18, 2024, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) accused the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) of using inferior ingredients like beef tallow and fish oil in the laddus. The allegations were supported by a lab report, intensifying concerns among the public.
Amul, one of India's leading dairy brands, clarified on September 20, 2024, that it has never supplied ghee to TTD. The company emphasized that its ghee is made from pure milk fat and undergoes strict quality checks.
Response from Amul:
Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister accused the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government of compromising the quality of the laddus, while YSRCP leaders claimed the issue was being politicized. The back-and-forth has only deepened the public's concern.
Devotees are alarmed by the potential adulteration of the sacred laddus, raising questions about food safety and religious sanctity. The controversy is set to fuel further political and public discourse in the coming days.
As the controversy unfolds, the focus will remain on ensuring the sanctity and quality of religious offerings. Both TTD and government authorities are under pressure to address public concerns, while political tensions continue to rise.
What's Next?