On-the-ground report: Tirupati Prasadam controversy sparks nationwide anger and investigation

India Today’s Apoorva J is on the ground in Tirupati, reporting live on the unfolding controversy over the alleged use of pork and beef fat in the temple’s famous prasadam. This shocking revelation has sparked widespread outrage across the country, with many devotees expressing their anger and disbelief. The controversy, which emanated from the Tirupati Tirumala temple in Andhra Pradesh, has had a significant impact, prompting Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to announce the setting up of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising senior officials to probe the allegations. The YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) responded defiantly, demanding a thorough investigation while accusing Naidu of exploiting the situation for political gain and trying to divert attention from his government’s failings. In a related development, the Health Ministry, through the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), has issued a request for comment to AR Dairy, one of the suppliers involved in the Tirumala laddu controversy. Moreover, the former chairman of the Tirupati Trust has approached the Supreme Court seeking the setting up of an independent committee headed by a retired Chief Justice to investigate the allegations that the ghee used for prasadam contains animal fats. This ongoing controversy continues to raise serious questions about the integrity of the offerings and the administration of the temple.