Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh addressed the controversy surrounding alleged adulterated ghee and the Indapur–Heritage business link, stating that Heritage Foods has no operational connection with Indapur Dairy beyond packaging. Responding to allegations from YSR Congress Party leaders, he challenged critics to provide evidence and defended market pricing claims. Lokesh also spoke about party coordination, Assembly disruptions, and even remarked that he would attend the T20 World Cup final if India qualifies.

What Triggered the Controversy

The issue began with allegations from YSRCP leaders linking Indapur Dairy with Heritage Foods in the context of adulterated ghee being sold at unusually low prices. Opposition leaders questioned how ghee could be sold at ₹360 per kg when market prices typically exceed ₹1,000 per kg.

Lokesh strongly denied the allegations, stating that if ghee is being sold at such a low rate, it raises concerns about adulteration rather than corporate malpractice. He clarified that Indapur Dairy merely functions as a packer and does not have a business ownership relationship with Heritage.

Allegation vs Response

Allegation by YSRCP	Lokesh’s Response
Indapur–Heritage business nexus	Indapur is only a packer; no ownership link
Ghee sold at ₹360/kg	Market rate exceeds ₹1,000/kg; low price suggests adulteration
Corporate benefit claims	Asked for proof and evidence
Regulatory violations	Stated complaint filed with SEBI

Lokesh also responded to remarks made by Botsa Satyanarayana, saying leaders should understand corporate terminology before making accusations.

Political Counterattack

During his remarks, Lokesh alleged that companies such as Sakshi and Bharathi Cements benefited significantly during the YSRCP regime. He stated that his family had not taken “a single rupee” from the government.

He also criticized the opposition for blocking the House proceedings for four days while simultaneously demanding budget discussions.

Party Organisation and Yuvagalam Outreach

Lokesh emphasized internal coordination within the party, stating that juniors and seniors are working cohesively. He stressed booth-level strengthening, urging leaders to focus on securing majorities at grassroots levels.

Referring to his earlier Yuvagalam outreach programme, he mentioned reconnecting with families across constituencies, clarifying that such meetings are cordial and not politically motivated.

Light Moment: T20 World Cup Comment

In a lighter vein, Lokesh remarked that if India reaches the final of the ICC T20 World Cup, he would attend the match and jokingly offered to take the Pulivendula MLA along.

Key Entities

Nara Lokesh – Minister in Andhra Pradesh Government
YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) – Opposition Political Party in Andhra Pradesh
Heritage Foods – Listed Dairy and FMCG Company
Botsa Satyanarayana – Senior YSRCP Leader
Sakshi – Media Company
Bharathi Cements – Cement Manufacturing Company
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) – Market Regulatory Authority

Final Verdict

Lokesh’s response appears aimed at shifting the debate from allegation to evidence, positioning the controversy as politically motivated. By combining corporate clarification with counter-allegations and organisational messaging, he attempted to consolidate both administrative and political narratives. However, the effectiveness of his defence will ultimately depend on regulatory scrutiny and public perception as the issue continues to unfold.