The Central Health Ministry issued a show cause notice to a ghee-supplying company on Monday after one of the samples from four tested failed quality checks, revealing adulteration. This action comes amid growing concerns regarding the quality of ghee used in the preparation of Laddu Prasadam at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala.
In response to the allegations of substandard ingredients and animal fat in the ghee, former Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) chairman YV Subba Reddy has approached the Supreme Court, seeking the formation of an independent committee led by a retired apex court judge to investigate the claims.
On the same day, a ‘purification’ ritual, Shanti Homam, was conducted according to the tenets of Vaikhanasa Agama in the temple’s Yagashala. TTD conducts ‘Pavitraotsavams’ annually, which includes ‘Samprokshnas’ in various areas to eliminate any ‘doshas’ from religious ceremonies. A one-day ‘Samprokshnas’ and ‘Shanti Homam’ were performed to restore devotees’ confidence and ensure they pray peacefully.
Additionally, the Temple Authority has established a sensory panel to evaluate food samples based on aroma, taste, and texture.
Earlier, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the allegations of adulteration in Tirupati Prasadam. “We are forming a Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising officers of IGP and above posts. The SIT will submit a report to the government, and we will take action based on that report so that such things are not repeated,” Naidu stated.
Naidu emphasized, “I am taking three angles: first, purification according to traditions; second, ordering an inquiry at the IGP level; and third, ensuring that only those with beliefs will be on the management committee. Finally, we will prepare standard operating procedures for all the temples.”
The controversy intensified after Naidu claimed on September 19 that the ghee used in the preparation of Tirupati laddoo prasadam contained animal fat during the previous YSRCP government.