Outrage Over Alleged Cockroach Found in Temple Laddu; Devotee Booked for False Claim
Outrage Over Alleged Cockroach Found in Temple Laddu; Devotee Booked for False Claim
In a disturbing incident that has sparked widespread attention and emotional reactions, a devotee claimed to have found a dead cockroach inside the sacred laddu prasad offered at the renowned Srisailam Devasthanam Temple in Andhra Pradesh. The video of the alleged discovery quickly went viral on social media, stirring concern and anger among devotees who hold the prasad in deep religious reverence.
The video was uploaded by a man identified as K. Saraschandra, a resident of Kalugolammapet in Kavali, Nellore district. According to him, the incident took place on June 29 after he had darshan at the temple. He stated that while consuming the laddu prasad, he was shocked to find a dead insect, which he identified as a cockroach, embedded inside the sweet. He immediately raised the issue with the temple’s executive officer and posted the visuals online, demanding accountability and better hygiene standards from temple authorities.
In his complaint, Saraschandra criticized the temple staff, alleging negligence in prasad preparation. His social media post quickly gained traction, sparking outrage not just from locals but from devotees across the state who were deeply upset over the idea of sacred food being contaminated.
However, the temple administration was quick to respond. Executive Officer M. Srinivasa Rao categorically denied the claims, emphasizing that the preparation of prasad at the Srisailam temple adheres to the highest hygiene standards. He assured devotees that the process is ISO 22000 certified, a globally recognized food safety certification, and that the laddus are prepared under strict supervision. “All staff wear gloves and head covers, and the entire kitchen is under constant CCTV surveillance. There is absolutely no chance of such a lapse,” Rao stated.
Temple officials have expressed disappointment that the issue was brought to public attention via social media rather than being reported directly to them. They reassured the public that there is no cause for concern regarding the safety or sanctity of the prasad.
In a dramatic turn of events, local authorities have now taken legal action against Saraschandra for allegedly spreading misinformation. On Tuesday evening, Srisailam police registered a case against him for making what they described as “false and defamatory” statements that hurt religious sentiments. Srisailam Circle Inspector G. Prasada Rao confirmed that the case was filed under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita that deal with protection of religious sentiments and defamation.
Police officials also noted that such claims, especially when unverified, can have a profound impact on the faith of millions and the reputation of a sacred place. The viral post has not only drawn criticism but also raised concerns about how quickly misinformation can spread and influence public opinion.
