Tirupati laddu row deepens, politics and probe collide

The controversy over the alleged adulteration of ghee used in the Tirupati laddu has grown into a major political and administrative issue in Andhra Pradesh. It has drawn national attention to temple governance, scientific scrutiny, and accountability. The dispute has placed the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams and the YSR Congress Party on opposite sides, even as investigations and court proceedings continue.

The issue began with a Special Investigation Team (SIT) inquiry into ghee procurement for laddu preparation. The team examined tender procedures, supplier selection, and quality checks. It found lapses in oversight and raised concerns about possible adulteration with non-dairy substances. As a result, investigators filed chargesheets against officials and private suppliers linked to the supply chain.

The State government has described the findings as a serious breach of public trust. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said that even the perception of compromised quality in a sacred offering was unacceptable. He called for strict action against those responsible. At the same time, officials said the probe aims to restore devotees’ confidence and strengthen safeguards within the temple administration.

In contrast, the YSR Congress Party has rejected the allegations. The party accused the government of politicising the investigation. Its leaders cited references from forensic and central agency reports, which they say do not conclusively prove the use of animal fat in laddu preparation. According to the party, the government has selectively interpreted technical findings to target the previous administration.

Meanwhile, experts have urged caution. Food safety specialists say laboratory reports alone cannot settle the issue. Instead, authorities must read test results alongside procurement records, storage conditions, and handling practices. Only then, they say, can investigators reach reliable conclusions.

Legal analysts have echoed this view. They point out that courts will seek a clear chain of responsibility across the supply process. Therefore, prosecutors must show who made decisions at each stage, rather than rely only on laboratory data.

At the same time, the controversy has renewed scrutiny of oversight at large religious institutions. Governance experts argue that bodies managing high-volume procurement need transparent tendering systems. They also stress the importance of independent audits and mandatory third-party quality testing.

In response, the government has announced a review of procurement norms and quality assurance systems within the TTD. As legal scrutiny continues and political exchanges intensify, the Tirupati laddu row has moved beyond a procurement dispute. Instead, it has become a broader test of administrative credibility and the handling of issues involving deep religious sensitivity.