Council Session Descends into Chaos Over Tirumala Laddu Adulteration Allegations
Heated exchanges and slogan-shouting disrupted proceedings in the Andhra Pradesh legislative council on Thursday, as allegations of adulteration in the sacred Tirumala laddu triggered a sharp confrontation between the ruling coalition and the opposition YSR Congress Party. The session was forced into adjournment until Friday amid escalating tensions.
Finance Minister Accuses Opposition of Spreading Misinformation
Finance minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy accused opposition members of spreading misinformation while the government attempted to present its official statement on the controversy. As YSRCP members raised slogans and protested, the House descended into chaos, prompting chairman Moshen Raju to call for adjournment to restore order.
Reddy Alleges Suppression of Reports and Irregularities Under Previous Regime
Speaking during the brief proceedings, Reddy alleged that crucial reports on the laddu issue were deliberately suppressed during the tenure of former chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. He claimed that tender procedures for ghee supply were altered and procurement rules modified to benefit select parties, compromising the sanctity of the prasadam.
According to him, tender conditions were diluted and norms changed under the previous regime, with even temple administration leaders acknowledging irregularities. Reddy pointed out that former Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams chairmen YV Subba Reddy and Bhumana Karunakar Reddy had earlier admitted lapses in the procurement process.
Government Vows Transparency Amid Opposition Denials
Despite those admissions, YSRCP leaders now refuse to accept the allegations, Reddy said. He stressed that the government is committed to bringing out the truth and ensuring full transparency in the controversy surrounding the laddu prasadam, emphasizing the need for accountability in matters of religious significance.
The political clash highlights deep-seated tensions over governance and integrity issues in Andhra Pradesh, with both sides digging in their heels as the investigation into the adulteration claims continues.
