Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu delivered a detailed PowerPoint presentation in the Assembly alleging large-scale adulteration of ghee supplied to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) during the previous regime. He claimed that adulterated ghee was used in the preparation of Tirumala laddus and cited reports from National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) to support his allegations.

Key Allegations by Chandrababu

In the Assembly, the Chief Minister alleged:

Around 59.71 lakh tonnes of adulterated ghee were supplied
Approximately Rs 234 crore was spent on procurement
Nearly 20.01 crore laddus were prepared using the said ghee
Tender norms were altered between January–February 2020
Quality standards were allegedly diluted

He claimed that the changes in tender rules enabled unqualified companies to supply ghee to TTD.

Reports Cited in the Presentation

Chandrababu said that after assuming office, his government:

Ordered fresh testing of ghee samples
Relied on an NDDB report dated July 23, 2024
Referred to a CFTRI lab report (August 2022) that allegedly mentioned the presence of beta sitosterol, indicating adulteration

He alleged that earlier reports pointing to irregularities were suppressed.

Role of SIT & CBI

The CM stated that:

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted
Charges were framed under multiple sections against those allegedly involved
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) submitted a report recommending action against erring officials

He also claimed that attempts were made to challenge the SIT legally, including approaching the Supreme Court.

Allegations Against Previous Regime

Chandrababu accused leaders of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) of:

Forming a syndicate for ghee supply
Tarnishing the image of Lord Sri Venkateswara
Ignoring complaints raised in 2022

He also referred to past controversies linked to TTD administration and questioned the role of former board officials.

Political Undertones

The Chief Minister mentioned that a petition filed by Subramanian Swamy against a one-member commission was dismissed by the court. He further alleged systemic irregularities in temple administration during the previous government.

The presentation was positioned as evidence-based justification for his earlier statement that “animal fat was found in the report.”

Final Take

The Tirumala ghee adulteration controversy has intensified political tensions in Andhra Pradesh. With Chandrababu presenting documentary references in the Assembly and the SIT probe underway, the issue is likely to remain a major flashpoint between the ruling government and the opposition in the coming weeks.

Further legal and investigative developments are awaited.