The Tirumala Srivari laddu controversy is causing a stir in the state’s political landscape. Chief Minister Chandrababu made serious accusations against the previous government, alleging that animal fat was used in the laddu instead of ghee. This led to widespread debate across the country, resulting in the Supreme Court forming a special investigation team. At the same time, Y.S. Jagan’s visit to Tirumala also became contentious. After Jagan made a declaration, coalition leaders demanded that he visit Srivari only after addressing the issue, leading to claims that the laddu controversy was being sidelined. As a result, Jagan decided to cancel his Tirumala visit.
Following Jagan’s cancellation of his Tirumala visit, coalition leaders have launched strong criticisms against him. This controversy has also become a significant headache for the TDP, as its leaders find themselves caught up in the declaration issue. Alongside Chief Minister Chandrababu, TDP MLAs, including Dr. V.M. Thomas from the SC-reserved constituency of Gangadhara Nellore (G.D. Nellore) and Shahjahan Basha from Madanapalle, visited Srivari in Tirumala. YSRCP leaders have accused Shahjahan Basha, who belongs to a different faith, of not making the required declaration before visiting Tirumala, claiming he went for darshan without fulfilling this obligation.
Reports suggest that Gangadhara Nellore MLA Thomas has signed the declaration, allegedly due to his Christian background. However, YSRCP leaders contend that SC reservations do not apply to Christians, stating that MLA Thomas is only eligible for BC reservations. They argue that it would be illegal for him to contest from the SC-reserved constituency of Gangadhara Nellore. Consequently, the situation has become contentious, with MLA Thomas embroiled in the declaration issue while Shahjahan Basha faces criticism for not signing one. YSRCP leaders are now questioning Chandrababu about whether any action will be taken against them, pointing out the apparent double standards one rule for Jagan and another for their party MLAs. The YSRCP is challenging the coalition government on this matter, leaving it to be seen how Chandrababu’s administration will respond.