During a media interaction, Andhra Pradesh HRD and IT Minister Nara Lokesh publicly apologised over the alleged adulteration of Tirumala Laddu prasadam between 2019 and 2024. Addressing reporters, he said the issue had deeply hurt the sentiments of devotees and described it as a serious lapse connected to faith and tradition.
“As a senior minister in the state government, I apologise to Hindus across the world on behalf of the Andhra Pradesh government,” Lokesh said. He stated that Tirumala Laddu prasadam is not just an offering but a sacred symbol of devotion for millions, and any compromise in its purity is unacceptable.
Lokesh informed the media that the government is taking concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future. He announced that a world-class testing facility will be established at Tirumala to ensure strict quality checks and scientific monitoring of ingredients used in the preparation of laddu prasadam. According to him, this advanced testing system will help maintain global standards and restore devotees’ confidence.
He further asserted that those responsible for the alleged adulteration would face strict legal consequences. “There is no question of sparing anyone involved in this wrongdoing. We will ensure stringent punishment under the law,” he said, adding that accountability will be fixed after a thorough investigation.
The minister’s remarks have brought renewed focus on the Tirumala Laddu controversy, which has triggered strong reactions among devotees and political circles. With the government promising corrective measures and legal action, the issue continues to remain a significant topic in Andhra Pradesh’s political and religious landscape.