Ex-Tirupati Official Dismisses ₹20 Crore Spurious Laddoo Claims as “Baseless”
In a sharp rebuttal to allegations of substandard laddoo distribution at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), former senior official V. Ananda Ram labeled the claims as “baseless propaganda.” The controversy erupted after reports alleged that laddoos worth ₹20 crore, made with adulterated ghee, were served to devotees—a claim now disputed by temple authorities.
The Allegations: Inside the “Laddoo Gate” Scam Claims
A whistleblower, purportedly a TTD insider, accused the temple administration of using low-quality ghee in laddoos—a sacred offering at Tirumala Temple. The allegations, amplified by media and opposition leaders, triggered outrage, with social media trends like #TirupatiScam and #LaddooGate demanding accountability.
Key claims:
– ₹20 crore worth of “spurious” laddoos distributed.
– Corruption among officials and suppliers alleged.
– Opposition calls for high-level probe.
Former TTD Executive Officer’s Rebuttal
V. Ananda Ram, ex-TTD Executive Officer, dismissed the allegations in an exclusive interview:
“These claims are malicious propaganda. TTD adheres to strict FSSAI guidelines—every laddoo undergoes rigorous quality checks. The ghee is sourced from trusted vendors and tested at multiple stages.”
Ram emphasized the temple’s transparent kitchen operations, with senior officials monitoring preparation 24/7.
TTD’s Official Response: “No Compromise on Quality”
The TTD administration released a statement denying any wrongdoing:
– All laddoos comply with FSSAI standards.
– Zero tolerance for quality deviations.
– Urged devotees to ignore “unverified rumors.”
Sources suggest the timing hints at political motives, with Andhra Pradesh elections nearing.
Public Reaction: Devotees Divided
- Supporters: Long-time pilgrims like Ramesh Kumar called the claims “a smear campaign,” citing decades of trouble-free prasadam consumption.
- Activists: Social worker Priya Reddy demanded an independent probe: “Transparency is non-negotiable for sacred institutions.”
What’s Next? Pressure Mounts for Probe
With devotees seeking clarity, the Andhra Pradesh government may order an investigation. The controversy highlights the delicate balance between faith and accountability in religious institutions.
Stay updated with NextMinuteNews for developments.
