Ghee adulteration a direct assault on Hindu faith, says TDP leader Palla Srinivasa Rao

TDP State president Palla Srinivasa Rao has lashed out at the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government for using adulterated ghee, synthetic substitutes, and chemical substances in the preparation of the sacred Tirumala laddu prasadam.

“It is nothing but betrayal of the Hindu faith. To adulterate the prasadam of Lord Venkateswara, revered by millions as the deity of Kali Yuga, is among the most disgraceful acts witnessed under the YSRCP dispensation,” Mr Srinivasa Rao said at a press conference here on Saturday.

Referring to NDDB findings and other laboratory reports, he said the evidence left no room for doubt that adulteration had indeed taken place. Citing the investigation reports, he said nearly 20 crore laddus had been prepared using close to 68 lakh kg of the “so-called ghee.”

Instead of pure dairy ghee, substances such as palm oil, chemical additives, and synthetic compounds had been used, he alleged. “For the sake of profit, the faith of devotees has been compromised,” Mr. Srinivasa Rao said, adding that this was not merely a financial irregularity but a direct assault on Hindu sentiments.

Demanding strict punishment for all those responsible, irrespective of their position, Mr. Srinivasa Rao alleged that the controversy was only a part of the larger pattern of neglect. During the YSRCP government’s term, over 200 attacks on temples were reported across the State, he alleged, adding that “only token cases have been registered with the perpetrators going scot-free.”

Speaking on the Union Budget, the TDP leader said it reflected a decisive roadmap for India’s future, aimed at ensuring improved living standards, sustainable employment opportunities, and long-term revenue frameworks for national growth.

He said the allocation of over ₹12 lakh crore for infrastructure development underlined the Union government’s vision for and commitment to building a strong foundation for economic expansion.