Minister Alleges Systematic Adulteration in Sacred TTD Prasadam, Points to Regulatory Failures

In a significant development concerning religious governance and public health, State Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav has presented what he describes as irrefutable evidence of adulteration in the 'laddu prasadam' distributed by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The allegations point to a grave breach of sanctity and safety protocols surrounding one of Hinduism's most revered offerings. Minister Keshav's statement goes beyond mere accusation, framing the issue as a consequence of deliberate policy erosion. He asserts that the core of the scandal lies in the relaxation of procurement norms for ghee—a critical ingredient—by the incumbent YSRCP government. This analytical charge suggests the adulteration is not an isolated lapse but potentially a systemic failure enabled by weakened regulatory oversight. The implications are profound, touching upon devotional integrity, consumer safety, and administrative accountability. The report underscores the necessity for an immediate, transparent forensic audit of the entire prasadam supply chain and a review of the contested policy amendments. This incident elevates from a food safety concern to a matter of public trust in institutions managing sacred traditions.