Tirumala Laddu Controversy: CM Targets Opposition, Promises Transparency

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) over the Tirumala laddu controversy, alleging that irregularities in the supply of ghee used for the sacred prasadam had compromised the shrine’s sanctity and that opposition leaders were attempting to shift blame. Addressing the Swachhandhra–Swarnandhra public meeting in Vinukonda , he said devotees had earlier complained about changes in taste and aroma, raising concerns about quality. He further alleged efforts were made to obstruct the probe and criticized attempts to link Heritage Foods to the issue, calling them politically motivated. Investigation findings later confirmed adulteration and procurement lapses , though they ruled out the presence of animal fat, prompting the government to initiate corrective measures and strengthen quality checks.

Emphasizing that the sanctity of the Tirumala shrine is tied to the sentiments of millions of devotees, Naidu said safeguarding its purity is a moral and administrative responsibility. He stated that enhanced inspections, stricter supplier scrutiny, and ritual purification measures have been undertaken to restore public confidence and ensure transparency. The controversy has intensified the political confrontation in Andhra Pradesh, disrupted legislative proceedings, and triggered a wider debate on accountability in temple administration. During his speech, the Chief Minister also criticized the Congress party’s conduct at an international AI summit in New Delhi chaired by Narendra Modi , saying protest actions during discussions on future technologies harmed India’s global image and distracted from youth-focused development priorities.

Highlighting governance initiatives, Naidu announced the clearance of nearly 10.8 million tonnes of accumulated waste and said 100 percent door-to-door garbage collection would be achieved in all panchayats by March end. He added that waste-to-energy plants in Rajahmundry , Kurnool , Kadapa , and Nellore will become operational soon, and stated that Andhra Pradesh has emerged as a leader in welfare delivery through the implementation of the “Super Six” schemes. Promising development for the region, he said Vinukonda’s hospital would be upgraded and proposals for agriculture and veterinary colleges would be considered. The Tirumala laddu issue, he noted, underscores the need for transparency, accountability, and protection of religious institutions while maintaining public trust.