BJP leader and Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje has demanded a strict and impartial investigation from the Andhra Pradesh government regarding the controversy surrounding Tirupati laddus. She shared a post on social media highlighting the seriousness of the issue and suggested that the state government either form a special team or hand over the case to the CBI. She stated, 'This is a direct attack on Hindu faith and beliefs, which will not be tolerated.'
Need for Thorough Investigation
Shobha Karandlaje has also called for an in-depth investigation into the suppliers of ghee for Tirupati laddus over the past four years. She emphasized the necessity of transparency, stating that it should be clear who received the tenders and where the ghee was sourced from. Karandlaje urged the Andhra Pradesh government to ensure complete transparency and declared, 'No more secrecy, it's time for the full truth to come out.' This strong demand from the BJP leader on a matter connected to Hindu faith has created a stir in both political and religious circles.
Concern Expressed by Prahlad Joshi
Union Minister Prahlad Joshi has also expressed concerns regarding the Tirupati laddu controversy, stating it as a very serious issue that requires a full investigation. He remarked, 'The lab report that has come out is very alarming. This is a matter of faith for millions. The report released by Chandrababu Naidu needs to be investigated, and if it is found to be true, the culprits must be severely punished.'
He also appealed for resistance against this issue and advised that the state government should take a decision on the matter. Joshi commented, 'The state government is capable; they should decide whether to hand over the case to the CBI or form a Special Investigation Team (SIT).'
The Controversy
An uproar has erupted over the alleged presence of fish oil and animal fat in the ghee used for making laddus at the world-famous Tirupati Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh. The state government alleged that adulteration was found in the ghee used, and this adulteration arose due to contracts granted by the previous government. The temple's committee, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) stated that the adulterated ghee was supplied by a blacklisted vendor during the tenure of the former Jagan Mohan government.
In response to these accusations, the central government has requested a report from the Andhra Pradesh government and assured action following an investigation. However, this revelation has sparked outrage among Hindu devotees across the country, resulting in protests in cities like Bhopal. Petitions have been submitted to both the Supreme Court and High Courts. Meanwhile, political accusations are flying, with BJP leaders demanding the death penalty for those responsible and Congress questioning why CM Naidu withheld the information for three months.
