Naidu announces 'cleansing' of Andhra temples amid Tirupati laddoo row
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has announced a "cleansing" process for all state temples following the controversy over alleged use of animal fat in Tirupati laddoos. Naidu emphasized the government's commitment to respecting religious sentiments, promising to consult with pontiffs, sages, priests, and other leading Hinduism experts to determine the future course of action. "A decision will be made soon after consultations with Jeer Swamy, Kanchi Swamy, and other religious leaders," Naidu was quoted as saying by India Today.
Naidu blames YSRCP for Tirupati laddoo controversy
Naidu has blamed the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) for the Tirupati laddoos controversy, accusing them of not only committing the crime but also shamelessly claiming it to be a diversional politics. "How is it possible to get a kg of cow ghee at ₹320," he questioned. On Saturday, Naidu had also pledged to prioritize the sanctity of temples and safeguard devotees' sentiments. "Every religion...have some customs and traditions and the government needs to protect them," he said.
Deputy CM calls for national-level 'Sanatana Dharma Rakshana Board'
Meanwhile, his deputy Pawan Kalyan began his 11-day penance at the Sri Dashavatara Venkateswara Swamy Temple on Sunday over the alleged adulteration of Tirumala's laddu prasadam. "I feel cheated from within. I'm taking a vow to seek forgiveness from the Lord," he said. On October 1 and 2, he will go to Tirupati and have a personal darshan and beg for forgiveness, and then "my atonement initiative will be completed in front of the Lord," he said.
