- The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Chandrababu Naidu claimed that people must accept their responsibility in the Tirumala laddu adulteration case because facts will remain unchangeable. The government will maintain its position against violent activities and public disturbances and actions which damage religious beliefs. He warned that serious consequences would follow if anyone interfered with matters related to God. The responsibility to safeguard Tirumala's sacredness belongs to both the people and the organization.
- The Chief Minister held important talks with Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and BJP state president Madhav and multiple ministers after the laddu adulteration situation became known. After the meeting Chandrababu Naidu spoke to the media.
Allegations of False Propaganda by YSRCP
- Chandrababu Naidu accused YSRCP leaders of spreading false information to divert public attention from their alleged actions. He questioned whether such behavior, including abusive language, should be tolerated. He said those responsible would be punished through all available legal means.
- He stated that the CBI had sent a report seeking action in the matter. He announced that the government would appoint a single-member commission to investigate all aspects of the case. He also said that additional details would be submitted to the court if required. The issue he presented involves matters that connect with both public beliefs and their mental state.
Concerns Over Past Actions and Reports
- The Chief Minister referred to earlier statements made in the Assembly that, according to him, hurt the sentiments of devotees. He said that after YSRCP came to power, such actions increased. The dismissal of idol destruction questions emerged as his response according to him. He said that a counter-campaign was established instead of taking action against the people who participated in the incident.
- Chandrababu Naidu questioned why a report on ghee adulteration in 2022 was suppressed by the previous government. He stated that the report showed evidence of adulteration yet the authorities did nothing about it. The issue continued because he believed everyone involved already knew about the misconduct.
Government Action After Change in Leadership
He claimed that he began implementing political reforms immediately upon becoming president. The authorities sent samples for testing because they suspected there were irregularities. His explanation showed that he based his remarks on the results from the NDDB report. He asked whether the opposition showed proper respect for religious beliefs while their activities aimed to harm religious followers.
Call for Collective Responsibility
The Chief Minister stated that harming the sanctity of a religious institution is a serious offense. He said that historically, no one had interfered with the sanctity of Lord Venkateswara. He explained that society must denounce religious offenses whenever such violations occur because they involve religious faith. He described the alleged act as a serious violation of religious sanctity.
