Controversy Over Alleged Use of Animal Fat in Tirupati Temple Prasadam

Union Ministers and BJP leaders react strongly to allegations of using animal fat in the Tirupati laddu prasadam, calling for an investigation. The controversy has sparked outrage among devotees, with demand for truth and action against those responsible.

Reacting to the alleged presence of animal fat in the ghee used for preparing the laddu prasadam at the Lord Venkateswara temple in Tirupati, Union Minister BL Verma called for immediate action against those responsible. 'It is very sad as people from across the country offer prayers at Venkateshwara temple. They are not just criminals, they have played with the sentiments of people. Action should be taken against those responsible,' Verma told ANI.

Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu described the issue as a matter of faith and noted that the allegations have deeply hurt devotees. 'This (Tirupati Prasadam issue) is a matter related to faith, there should be no ifs and buts. I want these things to be false, as it hurts people's sentiments. We also go there. If the Union Health Minister has said that an inquiry will be done, it must be welcomed,' he said.

BJP leader Nalin Kohli also called the matter 'concerning' and expressed shock among devotees. 'This is a very concerning matter. Such allegations would shock any Hindu. Tirupati is a place that has a lot of devotees. Its prasad is famous even abroad...The news of adulteration in its prasad shocks everyone. An investigation must be conducted into this matter, and the truth must come out,' said Kohli.

The controversy erupted after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu claimed that substandard ingredients, including animal fat, were used in the preparation of Tirupati laddus during the previous YSRCP government. Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy accused the Telegu Desam Party (TDP) of politicising religious matters and defended the quality control processes during his regime.

The YSRCP has moved to the Andhra Pradesh High Court demanding an investigation into Naidu's claims, advocating for a probe by a sitting judge or a committee. Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh shared a video alleging the use of animal fat, which has intensified the controversy. He expressed shock and called it a significant breach of trust regarding the sacred offerings at Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati.

(With inputs from agencies.)