
Date: September 24, 2024
Ponnavolu Statement: Claims Animal Fat is Costlier Than Ghee!
Introduction: YCP Leader’s Ponnavolu Statement
The Andhra Pradesh government recently launched a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the Tirumala Laddu adulteration controversy. YSR Congress Party (YCP) leaders have voiced concerns, with Ponnavolu Statement, a former Additional Advocate General, making some puzzling remarks.
Ponnavolu Statement:1 Questionable Comparison
Ponnavolu questioned the logic behind the ghee adulteration claims. He stated that animal fat costs between Rs 450 and Rs 1400, while the ghee purchased by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) costs only Rs 320 per kilo. “How could ghee be mixed with animal fat when the latter is more expensive?” Ponnavolu asked, adding a confusing analogy. “Brass can dissolve in gold, but will gold dissolve in brass?” He advised people to “think sensibly” before making accusations.
Demand for Judicial Oversight
Despite the government’s decision to proceed with the SIT probe, Ponnavolu expressed doubts about its effectiveness. He suggested that a retired judge should oversee the investigation to ensure a fair outcome. According to him, only then will the truth behind the laddu controversy emerge.
Ponnavolu’s Connection to YS Jagan
Ponnavolu has close ties to YS Jagan Mohan Reddy and played a pivotal role in legal cases during the YSRCP regime. His involvement led to the brief imprisonment of current CM Chandrababu Naidu. Given his legal background, many found Ponnavolu’s recent comments surprising.
Conclusion: Support the SIT for Transparency
Rather than making illogical comparisons, YCP leaders should support the SIT’s efforts to resolve the Tirumala Laddu issue. The investigation is essential for restoring faith in the state’s revered religious institutions. Disrupting this process with baseless arguments distracts from the real issue.