Controversy Surrounds Tirupati Prasadam Ingredient Allegations, Calls for Strict Actions Intensify

The Telangana Vishwa Hindu Parishad demands arrests over allegations of animal fat in Tirupati Prasadam ghee. Opposition calls for CBI inquiry as accusations surface against previous Andhra Pradesh government for using substandard ingredients. Ex-CM Reddy claims religious issues are being politicized by TDP.

Amid rising controversy about animal fat allegedly being present in Tirupati Prasadam, the Telangana Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) demanded strict action on Thursday. VHP Vice President Ram Singh emphasized the group's demand for immediate arrests and punishment of those involved. Singh warned that Hindu organizations and devotees might take matters into their own hands if the government fails to act.

Singh alleged that the ghee containing animal fat was used for profit motives. He claimed that ghee, usually priced at Rs 800-1000 per kg, was substituted with a cheaper alternative costing Rs 380 per kg. Singh suggested this malpractice contributed to the fall of the previous government and warned the current administration to take strict action to avoid a similar fate.

Opposition leaders have also criticized the previous Andhra Pradesh government amidst the ongoing controversy. Congress state president YS Sharmila called for a CBI inquiry, revealing that they had approached Governor S Abdul Nazeer, who responded positively. Sharmila highlighted the National Dairy Development Board report, which indicated that substandard ingredients such as fish oil, beef tallow, pig fat, and ghee procured at higher costs were used.

The controversy erupted following allegations by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu that substandard ingredients, including animal fat, were used in the preparation of Tirupati laddus during the previous Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) government. In response, former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy accused the Telegu Desam Party (TDP) of politicizing religious matters. Reddy defended the tender process and certification requirements, stating that only products passing certifications are used.

(With inputs from agencies.)