Tirupati Temple Ghee Adulteration Controversy: A Crisis of Faith
Adulteration of ghee at Tirumala temple sparks political and health concerns.
Editorial Analysis
The author argues that the Tirupati ghee adulteration controversy is a serious issue involving corruption and public health, and that attempts to politicize the issue are disquieting. The author emphasizes the need for stringent quality control in temple trusts and for the law to take its course, ensuring accountability and answers for the millions who consume the Tirumala laddu as prasadam.
Main Arguments:
- The alleged adulteration of ghee used for laddu prasadam at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has been a contentious issue since September 2024, when Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu alleged adulterated ghee, laced with animal fat, was supplied to the temple during the previous YSRCP regime.
- The Special Investigation Team (SIT) confirmed adulteration, stating that the product supplied was not ghee at all, but a sludge concocted by mixing palm oil and synthetic substances, along with chemicals allegedly hazardous to human health, to replicate the texture and aroma of ghee.
- The NDDB's Centre for Analysis and Learning in Livestock and Food tested samples and found very low levels of milk fat, while detecting the presence of coconut oil or palm kernel oil, indicating that several private dairies had colluded with officials in the TTD’s procurement wing and with external experts to supply a 'ghee-like' substance without procuring any milk.
- The YSRCP asserts it has been cleared of the gravest allegation—the presence of animal fat—and points out that none of its former TTD chairpersons has been named in the charge sheet; however, it cannot evade accountability for the procurement of some 58 lakh kgs of fake ghee during its tenure.
- The NDA insists that corruption has been exposed; however, the absence of any reference to animal fat places it in an uncomfortable position. Also, its claim that policy changes under the YSRCP regime enabled dubious suppliers appears weak, since some of the same dairies operated during the earlier TDP government.
Counter Arguments:
- The YSRCP claims vindication, projecting the SIT findings as a “clean chit” to the previous regime led by Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy.
- The NDA claims that policy changes under the YSRCP regime enabled dubious suppliers.
Conclusion
Policy Implications
Hindu groups protested in Tirupati on February 11, 2026, alleging ghee adulteration in Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) laddu prasadam. The stir followed a CBI-led SIT report submitted in Nellore court regarding the alleged supply of adulterated ghee to TTD. Protesters, including Sadhu Sant Coordination Committee convenor Atluri Narayana Rao and seers like Sivananda Swami, demanded accountability and a probe into mismanagement by TTD officials over the past five years, calling for a fast-track court to punish the accused.
Tirumala Pedda Jeeyangar Mutt head Shathagopa Ramanuja Pedda Jeeyar Swamy conveyed his anguish to Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, stating the adulteration caused severe shock to devotees. Sri Embar Jeeyar Swamy of Sriperumbudur and Sampathkumara Ramanuja Jeeyar Swamiji of the Mannargudi Mutt also voiced concerns, demanding strict action and a comprehensive probe. Sri Vidya Srisha Tirtha Swamiji of Vyasaraja Math wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging firm action from both the Central and state governments.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has begun investigating the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), based on the SIT charge sheet detailing a nexus between private dairy firms, intermediaries, and TTD officials. The charge sheet alleges hawala-based cash transactions and illegal gratification paid by private dairy operators to TTD officials to influence ghee procurement tenders and quality clearances. TTD has since tightened rules for laddu preparation and ghee procurement, mandating FSSAI and NDDB norms, GPS locks on tankers, and a narrowed procurement radius of 800 km. Currently, Mother Dairy, Indapur Dairy, and Sangam Dairy supply ghee to the Tirumala shrine, with plans to procure around 65 lakh kg.
Despite lab reports from ICAR-NDRI and NDDB-CALL not detecting animal fat, the issue remains politically charged. Former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy dismissed the controversy as political drama, while Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and BJP leaders have called for a full investigation. The Supreme Court has dismissed a plea opposing a state inquiry into the scandal. This controversy highlights the intersection of faith, food science, and politics, relevant to UPSC exams, particularly in Polity & Governance (GS Paper II) and Ethics (GS Paper IV).
Key Facts
The controversy began in September 2024 when Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu alleged adulterated ghee was supplied to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
The YSRCP approached the Supreme Court, seeking a probe, leading to the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
The SIT's charge sheet confirmed adulteration, stating that the product supplied was not ghee but a sludge concocted from palm oil and synthetic substances.
The NDDB's tests indicated a very low presence of milk fat and the presence of coconut oil or palm kernel oil.
Procurement records showed purchases of palm kernel oil, refined palm oil, food-grade lactic acid, acetic acid ester, monoglycerides, beta carotene, and artificial ghee flavor.
The accused dairies had not procured any milk, yet managed to supply the concoction as ghee.
The YSRCP procured some 58 lakh kgs of fake ghee during its tenure.
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II (Polity & Governance): Role of regulatory bodies like FSSAI, issues related to governance and transparency.
GS Paper III (Economy): Issues related to food processing and supply chain, corruption and money laundering.
GS Paper IV (Ethics): Ethical considerations in public service, integrity and accountability of public institutions.
In Simple Words
The Tirupati temple's laddu prasadam is made with ghee. There's a controversy because some people allegedly supplied fake ghee. This fake ghee was supposedly made with palm oil and chemicals, not real milk. It's a big deal because it affects the health and faith of devotees.
India Angle
In India, religious offerings like prasadam are considered sacred. If the ingredients are impure or fake, it hurts people's religious sentiments. This also raises concerns about food safety and corruption in managing temple affairs.
For Instance
Think of it like buying a bottle of honey that claims to be pure but is actually mixed with sugar syrup. You're being cheated, and the product isn't what you expect.
This matters because it's about honesty, religious faith, and public health. People trust that the prasadam they receive is pure and safe, and this trust shouldn't be broken.
Fake ghee in prasadam? That's a crisis of faith and a crime against devotees.
The alleged adulteration of ghee used for laddu prasadam at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has been a contentious issue. The controversy began in September 2024 when Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu alleged adulterated ghee, laced with animal fat, was supplied to the temple during the previous YSRCP regime.
The YSRCP approached the Supreme Court, seeking a probe, leading to the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). The SIT's charge sheet confirmed adulteration, stating the product was a sludge of palm oil and synthetic substances. The NDDB's tests indicated a very low presence of milk fat and the presence of coconut or palm kernel oil.
The investigation revealed collusion between private dairies and TTD officials. The YSRCP asserts it has been cleared of animal fat allegations, while the NDA insists corruption has been exposed. A one-man committee has been appointed to examine administrative lapses.
Millions who consume the Tirumala laddu deserve answers, and temple trusts must prioritize quality control.
Expert Analysis
The Tirumala laddu adulteration controversy brings several key concepts into sharp focus. The most immediate is the role of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the FSSAI is responsible for setting standards and regulating the manufacturing, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food to ensure safe and wholesome food is available for human consumption. In this case, the TTD has mandated that ghee suppliers clear tests aligned with FSSAI norms, indicating an effort to adhere to national food safety standards and reassure devotees about the quality of the laddu prasadam.
Another crucial concept is the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Enacted in 2002, the PMLA aims to combat money laundering by preventing the conversion of illegally obtained money into legitimate funds. The Enforcement Directorate's (ED) investigation into the Tirumala ghee adulteration case under the PMLA signifies that authorities suspect financial irregularities, such as hawala-based cash transactions and illegal gratification, were involved in the alleged adulteration. This highlights the potential for corruption and financial crimes within religious institutions and the government's commitment to investigating such matters.
The controversy also touches upon the concept of federalism, specifically the relationship between the central and state governments in addressing issues of public concern. While the CBI-led SIT submitted a report in Nellore court, the Andhra Pradesh government also appointed a one-member committee to further investigate the issue, a decision challenged unsuccessfully by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy in the Supreme Court. Additionally, Sri Vidya Srisha Tirtha Swamiji of Vyasaraja Math wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging both the Central and state governments to take firm action. This interplay demonstrates the concurrent responsibilities and potential conflicts between different levels of government in addressing such scandals.
Finally, the role of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) is also important. The TTD has mandated that ghee suppliers clear tests aligned with NDDB norms. The NDDB's Centre for Analysis and Learning in Livestock (CALL) also conducted tests on the ghee samples. This highlights the NDDB's role in ensuring the quality and standards of dairy products in India. For UPSC aspirants, understanding these concepts—FSSAI, PMLA, federalism, and the role of NDDB—is crucial for both prelims and mains, particularly in the context of governance, economy, and ethical considerations in public service.
Visual Insights
Tirupati Ghee Adulteration: Key Findings
Key findings from the SIT investigation into the Tirupati Temple ghee adulteration controversy.
- Adulteration Confirmed by SIT
- Yes
- NDDB Test Results
- Low milk fat, presence of coconut/palm kernel oil
SIT charge sheet confirmed adulteration, stating the product was a sludge of palm oil and synthetic substances.
NDDB tests indicated a very low presence of milk fat and the presence of coconut or palm kernel oil.
More Information
Background
Latest Developments
In recent years, there has been increasing scrutiny of food safety and quality standards in religious institutions across India. The Tirumala laddu controversy is not an isolated incident, but rather part of a broader trend of concerns about the integrity of prasadam and other offerings. This has led to calls for stricter regulations and oversight to ensure that devotees receive safe and unadulterated food items.
The Andhra Pradesh government has been actively involved in addressing the Tirumala issue, with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu taking a firm stance on the matter. The appointment of a one-member committee to investigate administrative lapses reflects the government's commitment to transparency and accountability. The ongoing investigations by the CBI and ED further underscore the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the allegations.
Looking ahead, it is expected that the TTD will continue to implement stricter quality control measures and procurement processes to prevent future incidents of adulteration. The focus will likely be on enhancing transparency, strengthening monitoring systems, and ensuring compliance with national food safety standards. The outcome of the ongoing investigations and any subsequent legal actions will also play a crucial role in shaping the future of governance and accountability within the TTD.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why did the Tirupati ghee adulteration controversy resurface now, almost two years after the initial allegations?
The controversy resurfaced due to the submission of a CBI-led SIT report in Nellore court in mid-January 2026. This report confirmed the allegations of adulteration, triggering protests and renewed demands for accountability from TTD officials.
2. What specific details from this case could be twisted into a tricky Prelims question, and how can I avoid the trap?
A potential Prelims trap could involve misattributing the initial allegations. For example, the question might state that the YSRCP first raised the issue of adulteration, when it was actually N. Chandrababu Naidu who initially alleged the adulteration in September 2024. The YSRCP then approached the Supreme Court seeking a probe. Remember the timeline to avoid this trap.
Exam Tip
Create a timeline of events: Naidu's allegation → YSRCP's SC appeal → SIT formation → SIT report.
3. How does this Tirupati ghee adulteration case connect to broader issues of food safety and governance in India?
This case highlights the critical need for robust food safety standards and oversight, particularly in religious institutions. It underscores potential failures in procurement processes, quality control, and accountability within large organizations like the TTD. This is part of a larger trend of concerns about the integrity of prasadam and other offerings, prompting calls for stricter regulations.
4. If a Mains question asks me to 'critically examine' the TTD's handling of this issue, what opposing viewpoints should I present?
When critically examining the TTD's handling, present these viewpoints: * Viewpoint 1 (Critical): The TTD failed to ensure the quality and purity of ingredients, betraying the trust of devotees and potentially endangering public health. The scale of the alleged adulteration (58 lakh kgs) points to systemic failures. * Viewpoint 2 (Mitigating): The TTD is a massive organization, and isolated incidents of corruption or negligence may occur despite best efforts. The TTD is taking steps to improve procurement and quality control in response to the allegations. Acknowledge efforts to rectify the situation, while still highlighting the severity of the initial lapse.
5. What is the likely impact of this controversy on the political landscape of Andhra Pradesh, considering the involvement of key political figures?
Given the involvement of N. Chandrababu Naidu (TDP) and the YSRCP, this controversy is likely to further polarize the political landscape. The TDP will likely use the issue to attack the YSRCP's past governance, while the YSRCP will likely attempt to deflect blame and portray the allegations as politically motivated. This could influence voter sentiment in future elections.
6. How does the 'Federalism' angle relate to this issue, given that it involves a state government and a central agency (CBI)?
The involvement of the CBI, a central agency, in investigating a matter primarily concerning a state-run religious institution (TTD) touches upon the principles of federalism. It raises questions about the extent to which the central government can intervene in matters traditionally under the purview of the state government. The YSRCP's appeal to the Supreme Court, leading to the CBI investigation, highlights the complexities of center-state relations in India.
7. What specific legal provisions or regulations related to food safety are relevant to this case, and which government body is responsible for their enforcement?
The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the regulations framed thereunder, are highly relevant. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the primary body responsible for enforcing these standards. Any violation of these standards, such as adulteration, can lead to penalties and legal action.
8. How does this situation potentially affect the image of India, given the Tirupati temple's global significance for Hindu devotees?
The Tirupati temple holds immense religious significance for Hindus worldwide. Allegations of adulteration can severely damage India's image as a place where religious practices and offerings are treated with utmost sanctity. It can erode the trust of devotees and raise concerns about the management and integrity of other religious institutions in India.
9. What are the key differences between 'ghee' as defined by food safety standards and the 'sludge concocted from palm oil and synthetic substances' that was allegedly supplied?
Ghee, according to food safety standards, is a milk product derived solely from milk or curd. It consists primarily of milk fat. The 'sludge' was found to contain very low milk fat and included palm oil, coconut oil, and synthetic additives. The key difference lies in the source and composition: ghee is a pure dairy product, while the 'sludge' was a mixture of vegetable oils and artificial ingredients.
10. If UPSC asks about 'recent controversies surrounding religious institutions in India,' what other examples, besides Tirupati, could I cite to demonstrate a broader trend?
While I cannot provide specific examples beyond the provided text, you could generally refer to instances of mismanagement, corruption, or lapses in safety and hygiene standards at other prominent religious sites. It's important to research and cite verifiable cases with credible sources.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI): 1. It is a statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. 2. FSSAI is responsible for regulating the manufacturing, storage, distribution, sale and import of food. 3. The Chairperson of FSSAI is appointed by the Prime Minister of India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statement 1 is CORRECT: FSSAI is indeed a statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. This act provides the legal framework for food safety regulations in India. Statement 2 is CORRECT: FSSAI's mandate includes regulating the entire food supply chain, from manufacturing to import, to ensure food safety. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: The Chairperson of FSSAI is appointed by the Central Government, not directly by the Prime Minister. The appointment process involves a committee and is based on qualifications and experience in the field of food safety.
2. Which of the following activities are investigated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)? 1. Hawala transactions 2. Illegal gratification 3. Tax evasion Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) primarily targets activities related to money laundering, which involves concealing the origins of illegally obtained money. Statement 1 is CORRECT: Hawala transactions, which are informal and often illegal methods of transferring money, fall under the purview of PMLA if they involve proceeds of crime. Statement 2 is CORRECT: Illegal gratification, such as bribes and kickbacks, also falls under PMLA if the money is derived from criminal activity. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: While tax evasion is a financial crime, it is generally investigated under tax laws and not directly under PMLA, unless the evaded taxes are proceeds of another scheduled offense under PMLA.
Source Articles
The ghee keeping Andhra on the boil - The Hindu
Time for some ‘halwa' - The Hindu
The crackling physics of cooking tadka - The Hindu
Ghee, the Indian superfood - The Hindu
How to Make Traditional Kerala-style Boli (മലയാളം അർത്ഥം) - The Hindu
About the Author
Anshul MannPublic Policy Enthusiast & UPSC Analyst
Anshul Mann writes about Polity & Governance at GKSolver, breaking down complex developments into clear, exam-relevant analysis.
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