Jagan Mohan Reddy Demands Action Against Naidu Over Tirumala Ghee Controversy

Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, president of the YSR Congress Party, announced he will write to the Prime Minister and Chief Justice of India. He seeks action against Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu for “twisting facts” regarding the alleged use of animal fat in ghee for Tirumala laddu. At a press conference, he stated, “I will explain how Naidu distorted the facts and why action should be taken against him.”

Reddy demanded action for tarnishing the reputation of the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple. He accused Naidu of diverting public attention from his government’s failures over the last 100 days. Reddy claimed Naidu was exploiting the sentiments of devotees for political gain.

Defending TTD’s Integrity

Reddy criticized Naidu’s claim that ghee made with animal fat was used in making Tirupati laddu. He questioned, “Is it fair for a Chief Minister to speak like that?” He detailed the procurement process at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), emphasizing its rigor.

He explained that ghee procurement involves a regular process. Tenders are called every six months, and only the quality supplier in the L-1 category is selected. Reddy noted that suppliers must submit a NABL certificate with the ghee tanker. TTD takes three samples from the tanker, and only those that pass all tests are accepted.

Reddy claimed that between 2014 and 2019, TTD sent back ghee and materials 15 times due to quality issues. He added that from 2019 to 2024, tankers were sent back 18 times for the same reason. Reddy expressed disappointment that Naidu chose to spread falsehoods instead of highlighting TTD’s strong procurement system.

He referred to lab reports cited by the TDP, stating samples were taken on July 12, after Naidu took office. He asked, “What has Naidu been doing since July 23? Why was this report kept under wraps?” Reddy argued that Naidu released the report to divert attention from his unmet election promises.

Reddy asserted that TTD has strict quality standards. He condemned Naidu for suggesting that adulterated ghee was used to make laddus for devotees. He questioned how the NDDB report could be released in the TDP office, especially on a day when Naidu praised his 100-day rule.

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