By dragging the sacred Tirumala laddu into petty politics, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has crossed a line that has deeply angered devotees across Andhra Pradesh and beyond. Even after conclusive scientific proof established that no animal fat was ever used in the prasadam, a sustained campaign of misinformation, intimidation, and communal provocation continues—raising serious questions about intent, accountability, and moral responsibility.
A sinful beginning: Allegations without proof
On September 18, 2024, N. Chandrababu Naidu, while holding the constitutional office of Chief Minister, publicly alleged that animal fat was mixed in the Tirumala laddu. That single statement—made without evidence—triggered widespread anguish among crores of Hindu devotees and marked the beginning of one of the most controversial political episodes in Andhra Pradesh’s history. What should have been a matter of quality control was deliberately projected as a religious crime.
Science destroys the narrative
Following directions of the Supreme Court, a CBI Special Investigation Team (SIT) sent ghee samples for testing to two of India’s most prestigious institutions:
- National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal, and
- National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), Anand.
Both laboratories categorically concluded that no beef tallow, no pig fat, and no animal fat of any kind was present in the ghee. The SIT’s final report decisively proved that the core allegation was false. Truth prevailed—but politics did not stop.
Despite the Verdict, Propaganda Continues
Even after the SIT report, the TDP ecosystem allegedly intensified its campaign—erecting flex boards, circulating AI-generated videos, and spreading false stories on social media. Supreme Court cautions to keep faith out of politics were openly disregarded. The laddu, a symbol of devotion, was repeatedly weaponised to inflame passions and deflect attention from governance failures.
Ghee timeline raises uncomfortable questions
The ghee tankers from which samples were collected were supplied on June 12, June 25, July 6, and July 12, 2024, all during Chandrababu Naidu’s tenure. If any wrongdoing had occurred, accountability logically rests with the administration in power at that time. Yet, relentless attempts were made to pin blame on YSRCP leaders, despite no names appearing in the charge sheet.
Bhole Baba Dairy: Facts vs. Fiction
Contrary to the propaganda, records show that Bhole Baba Dairy (earlier Harsh Dairy) was approved during the TDP regime.
- On June 26, 2018, the TTD Board granted technical qualification.
- Plant inspections, certifications, and eligibility approvals were all issued when Chandrababu Naidu was Chief Minister.
Later, when the same entity attempted to participate in tenders under the YSRCP government in September 2019, it was rejected for lack of eligibility—a fact conveniently omitted from the current narrative.
False linking and manufactured accusations
Another strand of misinformation involved attempts to falsely link an individual named “Chinna Appanna” to former TTD Chairman Y. V. Subba Reddy. Investigations established that Appanna worked as a government liaison officer and later with a TDP MP—facts ignored to create a false trail. The CBI charge sheet contains not a single reference implicating Subba Reddy or former Chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy.
Who really approached the Supreme Court?
It was Y. V. Subba Reddy himself who approached the Supreme Court seeking an independent probe to establish whether animal fat existed and whether the rejected ghee was ever used. A guilty person does not seek judicial scrutiny. The absence of his name—and that of any YSRCP leader—in the charge sheet speaks louder than propaganda.
A Question of Faith and Accountability
Tirumala is not a political stage. It is a sacred institution revered by millions. By repeatedly dragging Lord Venkateswara and His prasadam into political conflict, Chandrababu Naidu has not only undermined public trust but also deeply wounded religious sentiment.
With national laboratories, the CBI SIT, and the Supreme Court process all confirming the truth, the question remains: how long will lies be repeated after they have been conclusively exposed?
Devotees across the state are now asking a simple question—
When truth is clear, will accountability follow?
