The political turmoil continues following the confirmation that fish oil and animal fat were found in the ghee used to prepare laddus at the Tirupati Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh. The Andhra Pradesh government claims that the ghee used during the previous government's tenure was adulterated. Congress MP and opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has also made a statement regarding this issue.
In a post on the social media platform X, Rahul Gandhi wrote, "The reports of desecrating the prasad at Tirupati's Sri Venkateswara Temple are distressing. Lord Balaji is a revered deity for millions of devotees in India and around the world. This matter will sadden every devotee and requires thorough contemplation. Authorities across India must safeguard the sanctity of our religious sites."
The central government has requested a report from the Andhra Pradesh government on the allegations concerning the ghee used to prepare laddus and assured action post-investigation. However, this revelation has sparked outrage among Hindus across the nation. Protests have erupted in cities like Bhopal. Petitions are being filed in both the Supreme Court and the High Court. On the political front, accusations are flying back and forth. BJP leaders have demanded the death penalty for those guilty. Congress has questioned CM Naidu on why he kept quiet for three months.
Jagan Mohan Reddy dismisses allegations
Congress has also demanded a CBI probe. Meanwhile, Jagan Mohan Reddy stated that the allegations made by Chandrababu Naidu were baseless, intended to cover up 100 days of failure. After the change in administration on June 12, samples of the ghee used in Tirupati Temple's prasad were collected. The investigation report was prepared by June 23 but only came to light in September after 100 days of Naidu's government. The report revealed that the ghee used in making laddus could contain fish oil and animal fat, alongside oilseeds and plant-based fats. The findings were confirmed by the National Dairy Development Board's CALF lab.
Report mentions fish oil, animal tallow, and lard
The report stated that the ghee used in these laddus was adulterated, potentially containing fish oil, animal tallow, and lard. Animal tallow refers to fat from animals, and lard is specifically animal fat. The report also noted that the presence of animal fat and fish oil in cow ghee could be influenced by certain conditions, leading to false-positive results.
Rahul comments on Odisha incident
Rahul Gandhi also responded to an incident in Odisha involving the assault of an army officer on social media, stating, "The horrific incident in Odisha raises serious questions about the country’s law and order. An army officer seeking police help was brutally beaten, and his fiancée was mistreated in custody. This heinous act is a disgrace to humanity. Crimes against women under the BJP government are rampant and unchecked. When injustice festers within government mechanisms, where should ordinary citizens seek help? Tough legal action must be taken against all culprits to set an example of justice and security, especially for women."
