Pawan Kalyan vs DMK over 'Sanatan Dharm like virus' remark
What's the story
The controversy over the alleged presence of animal fat in the ghee used for making Tirupati laddus intensified after Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan referenced his "Sanatan dharm" pledge, indirectly targeting the DMK's Udhayanidhi Stalin from Tamil Nadu.
Kalyan's comments were promptly countered by DMK Spokesperson Dr. Syed Hafeezullah, who added that the party "does not talk about any religion, or Hinduism in particular," emphasizing their commitment to addressing caste atrocities, untouchability, and caste hierarchy.
Political row
Kalyan's indirect jab at Stalin over 'Sanatan Dharm' comment
On Thursday, Kalyan referred to the allegations of adulterated ghee in the laddoos as "the tip of the iceberg" of five years of mismanagement by the YSR Congress, suggesting that "we don't know how many crores of rupees they collected in bribes."
"Don't say 'sanatan dharm' is like a virus and...will destroy (it). Whoever said this, let me tell you sir...you cannot wipe out 'sanatan dharm.' If anyone tries... then you will be wiped out," Kalyan said during his address.
Party rebuttal
DMK's swift response to Kalyan's comments
The DMK was quick to respond to Kalyan's comments.
Party spokesperson Dr Syed Hafeezullah also accused Kalyan, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and their ally the Bharatiya Janata Party of using religion for political gains, labeling them as "the real enemies of Hinduism and humanity."
"This statement (by Kalyan) is an attempt to divert attention from crores affected by their policies," he added.
Religious stand
Kalyan's call for protection of 'sanatan dharma'
In the wake of the laddu row, Kalyan has repeatedly advocated for a pan-India committee to safeguard 'sanatan dharma.'
He warned against any form of 'desecration of 'sanathan dharma' and expressed his deep offense by undertaking an 11-day penance at Tirupati.
The Supreme Court had previously reprimanded Naidu for prematurely alleging animal fat in Tirupati laddu ghee, emphasizing that religion and politics should not be mixed.
Judicial intervention
Supreme Court orders investigation into animal fat claims
The Supreme Court has now ordered a special team to investigate the animal fat allegations.
The team will comprise two Central Bureau of Investigation officers, two Andhra Pradesh Police personnel, and a senior official from the center-run Food Safety and Standards Authority.
Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan stated that they do not want 'political drama' on this issue as it represents an important matter of faith for millions of devotees worldwide.