New TTD Chairman Takes Charge Amid Costly Controversy

BR Naidu, the newly appointed TTD Chairman, pledges impartiality and addresses key controversies, including religious staffing and prasadam quality. His role comes amidst ongoing investigations into the alleged use of substandard ingredients in prasadam at the Tirumala temple, a matter of significant public concern.

BR Naidu has been appointed the new Chairman of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), amid a swirl of controversy regarding the quality of prasadam at the revered Tirumala temple. A month after former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu claimed that substandard ingredients, including animal fat, were used in the making of laddus, a sacred offering at the Sri Venkateswara temple, the appointment marks a critical juncture for the institution.

Addressing his priorities, BR Naidu emphasized discussions with the government to scrutinize employment practices involving non-Hindu employees at Tirumala, potentially considering their transfer or voluntary retirement. He expressed gratitude toward Chandrababu Naidu and NDA leaders for his appointment, viewing it as a significant milestone. Naidu reflected on his personal connection to Tirumala, having been born in the Chittoor district and frequently visiting the sacred site, a practice he halted during the previous government due to concerns over its sanctity.

The Supreme Court's recent decision to form an independent Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the prasadam controversy underscores the gravity of the situation. With two CBI officers, two Andhra Pradesh state police officers, and a senior FSSAI official leading the probe under CBI supervision, the court aims to address the sentiment-driven concerns of millions of devotees worldwide while avoiding political theatrics.

(With inputs from agencies.)