Animal fat in TTD laddus
VHP Members Condemn Allegations of Animal Fat in TTD Laddus
In a strong response to recent allegations, members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh condemned the use of animal fat in TTD laddus. The controversy surrounding the purity of these iconic laddus, which are considered sacred offerings at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), has stirred strong emotions among devotees. VHP members gathered in Tirupati to express their outrage and demand a judicial inquiry into the matter.
Resolution Passed by VHP Kendriya Margadarshak Mandal
On September 23, VHP’s Kendriya Margadarshak Mandal, representing both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, held a meeting in Tirupati. During this meeting, a formal resolution was passed against the allegations of animal fat in TTD laddus. The VHP expressed its deep concern over these claims, calling them an affront to the Hindu faith and an insult to millions of devotees around the world who revere the Tirupati temple as one of the holiest pilgrimage sites.
In a press release, the VHP stated, “We are deeply hurt, concerned, and outraged by the recent allegations regarding the use of animal fat in the preparation of TTD laddus. This is not just a violation of religious sentiments but a grave insult to the sanctity of Hindu traditions.”
Demand for Temple Autonomy
The VHP Kendriya Margadarshak Mandal did not stop at condemning the allegations. They pointed to the broader issue of government interference in temple affairs, which they believe is at the heart of such controversies. The VHP argued that the management of Hindu temples, including Tirumala, should be under the control of the Hindu community rather than the state. The organization specifically criticized the previous government of Andhra Pradesh, led by the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), for appointing individuals from other faiths to key positions within the temple management.
“Such actions erode the autonomy of Hindu religious institutions and create distrust among devotees,” the VHP’s statement read. The group demanded that the state government immediately cease its control over Hindu temples and allow Hindu society to manage its religious institutions independently. “Temples should again become centers of faith and spirituality, managed by individuals who understand and respect Hindu traditions.”
Call for Judicial Inquiry into Allegations
The VHP emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the allegations of animal fat in TTD laddus. To ensure transparency and accountability, the VHP called for a judicial inquiry, conducted by a sitting judge of the High Court. They urged that the inquiry be conducted on a day-to-day basis, with hearings that would bring clarity to the matter.
The VHP insisted that those responsible for the alleged use of animal fat should be identified and punished to the fullest extent of the law. “The culprits behind this heinous act must be held accountable, and their punishment should serve as a deterrent for any future attempts to undermine the sanctity of Hindu religious practices,” the VHP declared in their statement.
Political Allegations and Denials
The controversy over animal fat in TTD laddus has become a political issue in Andhra Pradesh. The allegations were raised by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in the state, headed by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Jana Sena. The current ruling opposition, the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), has denied any involvement in the matter and has distanced itself from the accusations.
The VHP, however, pointed out that the YSRCP had been previously accused of interfering in the management of Hindu temples, and it is this type of interference that leads to such controversies. They reiterated their demand for temple management to be entrusted to individuals who are knowledgeable and respectful of Hindu traditions and practices.
VHP’s Vision for Temple Management Reform
As part of their resolution, the VHP proposed reforms in temple management, advocating for a more democratic and inclusive approach. According to the VHP, temple boards should be composed of representatives from various Hindu organizations, scholars, saints, and devotees. This would ensure that the management of temples reflects the values and traditions of the Hindu faith, and that decisions are made in the best interests of the devotees and the community.
The VHP’s stance is that government control over Hindu temples not only dilutes their sanctity but also leads to controversies like the one surrounding animal fat in TTD laddus. By restoring autonomy to Hindu religious institutions, the VHP believes that such issues can be avoided in the future.