In a significant move, the Andhra Pradesh government has established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the alleged adulteration in ghee used for preparing the famed 'prasadam laddus' at the Tirupati Devasthanam. This action was initiated following a public announcement by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, emphasizing his concerns regarding the quality of ghee used in the preparation of the laddus, which have come under scrutiny for possible contamination with animal fat.

The SIT will be led by Guntur Range IG Sarvashrestha Tripathi (IPS), alongside DIG Gopinadha Jetty and SP Harshavardhana Raju. Naidu stated that the team, consisting of an IG-level officer or higher, would conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged misuse of power related to the procurement of ghee and other quality control measures. "The government will take stringent action to ensure such incidents do not occur again," he asserted.

Criticism from YSRCP

However, the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has expressed skepticism regarding the efficacy of the SIT. Senior YSRCP leader and former irrigation minister Ambati Rambabu deemed the probe insufficient and called for a Supreme Court-monitored investigation. During a press conference, he stated, "The chief minister's decision to order an inquiry through a DIG (IG) was laughable and insufficient... the SIT probe is inadequate; the issue should be investigated under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court."

Santhi Homam Ceremony

In response to the allegations and the resulting uproar, Naidu also announced a ritualistic purification ceremony, known as Santhi Homam Panchagavya Prokshana, which was held at the Srivari temple. This ceremony aims to address the perceived desecration caused by the alleged adulteration. Furthermore, Naidu accused the YSRCP of lowering procurement standards for ghee, alleging that the required experience for suppliers was reduced from three years to one year, and the minimum turnover threshold was decreased from ₹250 crore to ₹150 crore.

Allegations and Findings

These serious allegations emerged when Naidu claimed that the ghee being used for the laddus was of inferior quality, allegedly containing beef and lard (pig fat). The situation escalated when the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) reported findings from laboratory tests that indicated the presence of lard and other impurities in multiple ghee samples. TTD Executive Officer J. Shyamala Rao confirmed these findings, which resulted in immediate actions against the contractor responsible for supplying the contaminated ghee.

As the investigation unfolds, the focus will remain on ensuring the integrity of the prasadam, which holds significant cultural and religious value for devotees visiting the Tirupati temple. The government and various stakeholders are keen to restore public trust in the offerings provided at this revered shrine.

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