Amaravati, Feb 24 (TNT): Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday alleged that systems in Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) were weakened and attacks on temples increased during the previous YSRCP government’s tenure, while asserting that the coalition government is committed to protecting devotees’ sentiments.
Making a PowerPoint presentation in the State Assembly on the adulterated ghee issue, Naidu said ghee worth ₹234 crore was allegedly supplied to TTD in adulterated form and about 20.01 crore laddus prepared with such ghee were distributed to devotees.
He said a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted after the coalition government assumed office to probe the issue, while court proceedings later resulted in directions for a CBI inquiry.
The CM alleged that tender norms were diluted in early 2020 and reports pointing to adulteration were suppressed. Subsequent laboratory analysis, including findings by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), indicated the presence of animal fat in ghee samples, while investigators also detected use of chemicals and fake documentation in the supply process.
He further claimed that between 2019 and 2024, attacks were reported on over 2,000 temples and accused the previous administration of misusing the TTD trust board for political purposes.
He also denied allegations linking Heritage Dairy to the ghee supply controversy, stating that no Heritage products were supplied to TTD or government departments.
Highlighting corrective measures taken by the current government, the Chief Minister said quality control mechanisms were strengthened, ingredients for Srivari laddu are now procured with proper certification, and infrastructure such as modern kitchens, centralized accommodation systems, and command control centres have been introduced to improve pilgrim services.
Annadanam programmes, temple renovations, and environmental initiatives are being implemented to enhance facilities and restore sanctity at Tirumala, he added.
TNT KM
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