New Delhi: Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Friday sought a full report on the Tirupati laddu issue, saying the government will further examine matter and take suitable action.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s claim that animal fat was used in Tirupati laddus during the previous government has triggered a massive political row, with the YSRCP accusing Naidu of indulging in “heinous allegations” for political gains and the TDP circulating a lab report to back its claim.
During an NDA legislature party meeting on Wednesday, Naidu claimed that the previous YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government did not even spare the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirupati and used substandard ingredients and animal fat to make laddus.
The controversy erupted on September 19, when a report shared by Naidu alleged that during the previous YSR Congress Party government, beef tallow and fish oil had been used in the ghee for preparing the sacred Tirupati laddu prasadam at the Tirumala temple. The iconic laddu, offered to Lord Venkateswara and served to devotees since 1715, has long held spiritual significance.
Tallow, a form of rendered animal fat, typically comes from beef or mutton and consists primarily of triglycerides. While traditionally referring to the hard fat around the kidneys and loins of these animals, in industrial use, the term can also refer to fats derived from other sources.
Naidu’s allegations have sparked a political storm, with the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) dismissing the claims as politically motivated. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP), however, has circulated a lab report supporting the accusations.
Nadda reiterated that the Centre would thoroughly investigate the matter, stating, “We will ensure that the issue is thoroughly examined, and action will be taken as per food safety standards.”
