Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu claimed on Friday that ghee used for Tirupati laddus was adulterated with chemicals like toilet cleaner during the YSRCP regime. Citing a CBI report, he stated that such adulterated ghee was also supplied to the Srisailam temple. Former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy dismissed the allegations, accusing Naidu of dragging God into politics.
The controversy over Tirupati laddus in Andhra Pradesh has taken a new turn, with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu alleging adulteration of ghee with chemicals like toilet cleaner during the YSRCP regime from 2019 to 2024. Speaking at the 'Mee Bhoomi–Mee Hakku' event in Kalugotla village, Yemmiganur block, Kurnool district, Naidu referenced the CBI-led Special Investigation Team (SIT) report. He stated, 'The SIT report clearly mentioned that the ghee supplier to the TTD had procured various chemicals, including the one typically used for cleaning bathrooms, and used them in the adulteration of ghee.'
According to the report, the ghee was adulterated with plant oils and chemicals, though an NDDB report mentioned animal fat, which the CBI chargesheet refuted. Naidu claimed that former YSRCP MP YV Subba Reddy acknowledged possible adulteration but denied animal fat. He added that such adulterated ghee was supplied to major temples across the state, including Srisailam.
Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha cited four reports—from CFTRI, NDDB, NTCSI, and SIT—confirming the adulteration. She highlighted LABSA (Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid), a chemical used in toilet cleaners, calling it a grave sacrilege to Hindu sentiments. The TDP issued a statement noting that accused Manish Gupta and Pomil Jain supplied about 8,900 kilograms of Lactic Acid and LABSA to dairies between March 2022 and May 2024 via informal channels like WhatsApp. LABSA is described as a non-food grade, corrosive substance that can cause severe harm if ingested.
Meanwhile, YSRCP president and former Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy accused Naidu of spreading lies. He said, 'The CBI chargesheet, backed by reports from two Central laboratories, clearly states there was no animal fat in the ghee and does not mention anyone associated with YSRCP.' Reddy noted that former TTD chairmen Subba Reddy and Bhumana Karunakar Reddy received a clean chit. He further accused Naidu, his son Nara Lokesh, and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan of using God for selfish political gains. The row continues to heighten political tensions in the state.
