In Tirupati, a heated political controversy has erupted over the deaths of cows at the Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshanasala (SV Goshala), a dairy farm operated by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The issue has sparked protests, police action, and a sharp exchange of accusations between political parties, highlighting the sensitive nature of animal welfare and religious sentiments in the region.
Background of the Controversy
The SV Dairy Farm, managed by TTD, traditionally maintained a limited number of cattle primarily to supply milk and dairy products for temple rituals. Until 2015-16, strict rules ensured only healthy cows were accepted. However, after these norms were relaxed, the farm began accepting all cows, including aged and abandoned animals rescued from slaughterhouses. This led to the cattle population swelling to over 2,500, many of which were elderly or infirm.
Between April 2024 and March 2025, 191 cows reportedly died at the farm. The deaths were attributed mainly to natural causes such as age and disease, given the high number of older cows in the facility. TTD officials have stated that the death rate remains consistent with previous years and that calves are also being born, indicating ongoing animal care efforts.
Political Fallout and Protests
The controversy intensified when former TTD chairman and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader Bhumana Karunakar Reddy accused the current TTD administration of negligence, alleging that over 100 cows died in just a few months due to mismanagement. He also claimed that donations meant for cattle welfare were being misused. These allegations led to protests in Tirupati, including road sit-ins and attempts by YSRCP leaders to visit the goshalas, which were blocked by police citing law and order concerns.
In response, the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders denied the allegations, challenging Bhumana to provide proof and accusing him of politicizing the issue. They maintained that the cows receive proper care and that any deaths are due to natural causes. TTD chairman B R Naidu called the accusations baseless and damaging to the temple’s reputation.
Legal Actions and Official Statements
Following the accusations, an FIR was filed against Bhumana Karunakar Reddy for allegedly spreading misinformation and hurting the sentiments of devotees. The complaint was lodged by BJP spokesperson and TTD Trust Board member G. Bhanuprakash Reddy. The police have allowed Bhumana to visit the goshalas with security but have restricted large rallies to prevent unrest.
TTD officials have highlighted past vigilance reports that exposed irregularities and neglect during previous administrations, including the period when Bhumana was chairman. They assert that the current management is taking steps to improve fodder quality, sanitation, and veterinary care, filling vacant posts and streamlining operations.
Perspectives and Implications
This clash over cow deaths at the TTD dairy farm reflects broader political and social dynamics. Cows hold a sacred place in Hindu culture, and their welfare is a sensitive issue that can quickly become politicized. The YSRCP’s accusations appear aimed at highlighting alleged administrative failures of the current government, while the ruling parties view the allegations as attempts to malign the temple’s image for political gain.
The situation underscores the challenges in managing large goshalas that accept aged and rescued animals, where natural deaths are inevitable despite best efforts. Transparency in animal care, clear communication of facts, and depoliticizing welfare issues could help ease tensions.
Conclusion
The controversy over cow deaths at the TTD dairy farm has escalated into a political battle involving protests, legal actions, and public accusations. While the TTD maintains that deaths are due to natural causes and that care standards are improving, opposition leaders continue to demand accountability. As the debate continues, balancing animal welfare concerns with political interests remains crucial to maintaining peace and trust in Tirupati’s religious and social institutions.
With inputs from agencies
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