Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said the NDDB and SIT reports clearly show serious irregularities in the preparation of ghee used in Tirumala Laddu Prasadam. He said that the SIT investigation has revealed that the ghee was being manufactured using chemicals and palm oil, and in some of the components, oils derived from animal fat were used, which shows shocking insensitivity towards religious sanctity.
Describing it as a deliberately unholy act, the Chief Minister said that it is not a matter of personal belief of any person, but it is a matter that deeply hurts the sentiments of crores of devotees. Terming it as malpractice and a grave sin, he said that no one in history ever tampered with the sanctity of the temple of Lord Venkateswara. Even during the British rule, when traditions and records were further strengthened.
Responding strongly to the demands for an apology, Chandrababu Naidu said such arguments reflected arrogance, disrespect for constitutional values ​​and political hooliganism. The Chief Minister clarified that nowhere in the CBI report has it been said that adulteration did not take place and reiterated that this issue is not about politics but about faith, purity and accountability.
Committee formed to investigate shortcomings: Naidu
Speaking at a joint press conference of NDA leaders at his Undavalli residence, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said the state government has received the charge sheet. His number has not been informed yet. He said that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has also submitted a report, in which instructions have been given to initiate administrative action against the concerned persons.
The Chief Minister said that on the basis of CBI correspondence, the government has constituted a single-member committee to comprehensively investigate the report, identify shortcomings and fix responsibility. He clarified that after the completion of the review by the committee, the government will take appropriate action as per its recommendations.
