TPN , Amaravati — Minister Nara Lokesh has countered the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party’s (YCP) call for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the ongoing Tirumala Laddu adulteration allegations. This comes in the wake of claims that animal fat has been mixed in the ghee used for preparing the famous Tirupati Laddu.
Lokesh criticized YCP leaders for expressing their willingness for a CBI investigation while highlighting their failure to address other serious allegations, specifically questioning why Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy did not seek a CBI inquiry into the murder of his uncle. “If YCP leaders are so eager for a CBI investigation, why hasn’t Jagan initiated one regarding Babai’s murder? Sunita herself asked for a CBI investigation—why not pursue it?” he queried.
The minister noted the discrepancies in the pricing of ghee, stating, “What does it mean if ghee is supplied at a price 40 percent lower than the market rate? Attempting to cover up mistakes is concerning.” Lokesh claimed that the YCP government had reduced the required turnover for suppliers from Rs. 250 crores to Rs. 150 crores, ultimately compromising the quality of the laddus and damaging devotees’ sentiments.
He emphasized that the TDP has gathered substantial documentation, reports, and tender processes related to the allegations of ghee adulteration, asserting, “We are prepared to discuss this matter thoroughly.”
Lokesh concluded by urging political leaders to prioritize the welfare of devotees over political agendas, stating, “Now is not the time for politics; we must focus on restoring trust in our sacred traditions.” As the controversy continues to unfold, both parties remain at odds, intensifying the political climate in Andhra Pradesh.
