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The ongoing controversy surrounding the Tirupati laddoos, allegedly containing animal fat in their ghee, has escalated with Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan's pointed remarks directed at Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister. This incident marks a heated exchange between the two political figures, drawing attention to religious sentiments and political maneuvering in the lead-up to the upcoming general elections.
Kalyan, during a public rally at Tirupati, described the alleged adulteration of ghee in the laddoos as a symptom of larger corruption within the YSR Congress party. He further intensified his attack by directly addressing Stalin's controversial statement made last year, where Stalin compared 'sanatan dharm' to viral diseases like malaria and dengue, advocating for its eradication. Kalyan's reaction was sharp and defiant, declaring that 'sanatan dharm' cannot be wiped out and threatening retaliation against anyone who attempts to do so.
The DMK swiftly responded to Kalyan's remarks, denying any intention of attacking Hinduism and clarifying their focus on opposing caste atrocities and untouchability. Their stance aligns with the Dravidian movement's historical principles of social justice, drawing parallels to the ideologies of Baba Ambedkar, Jyotirao Phule, and Periyar. The DMK spokesperson, Dr. Syed Hafeezullah, criticized both Kalyan and his boss, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, for their comments, accusing them of using religion for political gains and labeling them as the true enemies of Hinduism and humanity.
The Supreme Court, in the midst of this political storm, intervened in the laddoos row, calling for a special investigation team consisting of CBI officers, Andhra Pradesh Police personnel, and a senior official from the Food Safety and Standards Authority. The court emphasized the need to avoid political manipulation of religious sentiments and highlighted the importance of the Tirupati laddoos as a symbol of faith for millions of devotees worldwide. The court's directive aims to ensure a transparent and impartial investigation into the allegations of animal fat in the laddoo ghee, separate from any political agendas.
The Tirupati laddoo row has become a potent symbol of the intertwining of religion and politics, particularly in the context of upcoming elections. Pawan Kalyan's attack on Udhayanidhi Stalin's statement concerning 'sanatan dharm' has fueled a heated debate, exposing the delicate balance between religious beliefs and political discourse. The Supreme Court's intervention, emphasizing the importance of faith and the need for a neutral investigation, reflects the weight of this controversy and its potential impact on the political landscape.
Source: In Tirupati Row, Pawan Kalyan vs DMK Over "Sanatan Dharm Like Virus"