Fodder fraud, dead cows, and cover-ups? TTD chief accuses YSRC regime of massive Goshala scam

TTD chief raises alarm over alleged Goshala scam under YSRC regime

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) chairman BR Naidu has alleged a large-scale scam in the management of the Sri Venkateswara Goshala during the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government, claiming even basic necessities such as cattle fodder were misappropriated. His statement, made during an inspection of the facility, has triggered a political row in Andhra Pradesh, reigniting tensions between the current Telugu Desam Party-led coalition and the opposition.

According to Naidu, irregularities in cattle care, fodder procurement, and administrative practices were rampant under the earlier regime. He cited observations made by All India Cow Protection Organisation general secretary Koti Sridhar and the TTD’s own internal records from 2023–24 to back his claims. The chairman noted that former Goshala director Dr. Harinath Reddy allegedly exercised excessive control over the premises, restricting access to others and operating the facility like his personal estate.

Naidu further accused vested interests of attempting to politicise the issue in order to shift attention from what he described as “grave misdeeds” that had occurred under the YSRCP-led trust board. He added that the current administration had ensured transparency and claimed no instance of corruption had been reported since the coalition came to power ten months ago. A formal Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) probe may be sought if deemed necessary, he added.

What specific irregularities are being alleged at SV Goshala?

The core allegations revolve around the mismanagement and suspected misuse of resources at the SV Goshala, a cow shelter managed by TTD. Key areas of concern flagged by the chairman and animal welfare observers include the procurement and distribution of fodder, the administration of veterinary medicine, sourcing of cows from outside Andhra Pradesh, and the lack of documentation around calf births and livestock tracking.

Board member G. Bhanu Prakash Reddy also stated that a police case had been filed against former TTD chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy for allegedly spreading misinformation regarding cattle deaths. The board claims to have substantial evidence to support the case. Koti Sridhar added that procurement processes during the YSRCP regime lacked transparency and accountability, especially in relation to medicine supply and livestock acquisition.

How has the opposition responded to the allegations?

Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, the former TTD chairman and a prominent YSRCP leader, has strongly denied the corruption charges. Instead, he alleged that over 100 cows have died at the Goshala in the past ten months—during the current administration’s tenure. He questioned the credibility of the current TTD leadership and claimed he had access to nearly 2,000 informants within the organisation who could validate his claims.

Reddy also released purported photographs of dead cows, challenging the TTD board to prove that the images were doctored. He accused Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Executive Officer A.V. Dharma Reddy, and chairman BR Naidu of providing contradictory statements and concealing facts. In an escalation of tensions, Reddy attempted to lead a protest rally to the Goshala but was stopped by local police, resulting in a confrontation.

Why is the SV Goshala issue becoming politically sensitive?

The SV Goshala, located in Tirupati, is not just a religious asset but a symbol of cultural and devotional significance for millions of devotees across India. Mismanagement of such a sacred facility under the TTD—a body revered for overseeing Lord Venkateswara’s temple—can severely damage the public image of any government in power.

With Andhra Pradesh heading into a politically charged phase ahead of the elections, both the ruling alliance and the opposition appear to be using the Goshala narrative to frame each other as negligent or corrupt. The incident has thus become a flashpoint in the broader narrative of governance, religious trust management, and public accountability in the state.

Could this lead to an official investigation?

Given the gravity of the allegations and the high-profile names involved, the TTD board has indicated the possibility of seeking an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). If a probe is launched, it could potentially unravel a wider network of irregularities involving procurement, veterinary supplies, and livestock records.

The demand for accountability is growing, and with public sentiment intertwined with religious belief, pressure on both state and temple authorities to act decisively is mounting. TTD officials are also facing calls to audit not just Goshala operations, but other temple-linked welfare initiatives that may have seen similar lapses during past regimes.

What’s the likely impact on TTD and public trust?

The current leadership at TTD is attempting to reassure the public that corrective action has already been initiated and that misgovernance from the past is being thoroughly addressed. However, political mudslinging over religious and cultural assets risks eroding public faith in the TTD’s management—a concern both sides must navigate carefully.

The issue of Goshala mismanagement also intersects with broader themes of transparency in temple administration and the role of political appointees in religious institutions. For now, the controversy continues to stir public interest, with both camps using the SV Goshala narrative as a political lever ahead of crucial state and temple board decisions.