LADDU PRASAD CONTROVERSY AT TIRUPATI TEMPLE IN THE STATE OF ANDHRA PRADESH

Tirupati laddu controversy is a dispute over the use of animal fat in the preparation of laddus, a prasad offered at the Tirupati Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh.

- DR. MAINAN RAY

The controversy began when a lab report claiming that ghee used to make laddus at the temple contained animal fat, including beef tallow and lard. Two cases (PIL) have already been filed before the court. That raised a fundamental question as to the role and responsibilities of the “State”. Because, the “State” plays a crucial role in protecting public belief, maintaining the sanctity of religious places, and ensuring the standards of food safety at religious places or temples. This role is guided by constitutional provisions and legal principles that uphold the fundamental rights of individuals to practice and profess their religion freely, while also safeguarding public health and safety.

CONSTITUTIONAL SCOPE: Article 25 of the Indian Constitution which guarantees the freedom of conscience and the right to profess, practice, and propagate religion including the right to manage religious affairs and maintain sacred practices, rituals, and standards at religious places.

Also, Article 26 of the Constitution which protects the rights of religious denominations to manage their own religious affairs, including the control and administration of religious institutions including the authority to maintain the sanctity and standards of food offerings at religious places. In the Tirupati laddu dispute, adulterating prasad at a religious site affects the devotees’ religious beliefs, violating constitutional ethos. Adulterating prasad violates the religious rights of those who offer or consume it.

SCOPE OF THE OTHER SPECIFIC ACT(S):

Food adulteration in religious sites is covered by the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act). Under the Act, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to oversee food safety and standards. The Act sets science-based food standards and regulates their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import to ensure safe and healthy food for human consumption.