Union Minister Raises Concerns Over Alleged Adulteration of Tirupati Laddu
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, has raised concerns about the alleged adulteration of the famous Laddu Prasadam at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD). He expressed alarm over claims that ghee made from animal fat and fish oil was being used in the preparation of the sacred offering.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N Chandrababu Naidu, on Friday, Bandi Sanjay stated that the news had shocked the nation. He emphasized that it had deeply hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus, not just in India but across the world.
Sanjay pointed out that Lord Venkateswara of Tirumala is revered by Hindus globally and even by people from other religious communities. He highlighted that this issue is not just about religion but also about the respect and sanctity associated with the temple.
He noted that there had been previous complaints regarding the temple’s sanctity being compromised, including allegations of other religious activities taking place within the temple area. Despite the complaints, no concrete action was taken earlier, and there were even accusations of red sandalwood smuggling from the Seshachalam forests by some TTD officials, he said.
Bandi Sanjay expressed suspicion that some officials and politicians might be involved in such illegal activities. He called the alleged use of animal fat in the laddu preparation a “vile act” and suggested that it could be part of a larger conspiracy to sabotage Hindu religious practices and undermine the temple’s sacredness.
He further stressed that the appointment of people who either belong to other religions or do not respect Hindu beliefs may have paved the way for such acts. He hinted that higher officials could be involved, as such practices could not have continued for years without their support.
In his letter, the Karimnagar MP suggested that the seriousness of the issue warranted an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). However, he left the decision to the Chief Minister, expressing confidence in his wisdom to choose the appropriate investigative agency.
He also emphasized that the current government has a responsibility to safeguard the sentiments of the Hindu community, urging the Chief Minister to set aside politics and take quick action. Sanjay urged the AP CM to order an immediate inquiry and ensure that those responsible, irrespective of their social or political status, are held accountable.
In conclusion, Bandi Sanjay said that swift action in this matter was vital to restoring the faith of millions of Hindus worldwide.
