Supreme Court SIT Probes Ghee Supplied for Tirumala Laddu Prasadam

Controversy Resurfaces Over Laddu Ingredients

The controversy surrounding the ghee supplied for the Tirumala laddu prasadam has resurfaced, drawing renewed public and administrative attention. The issue relates to allegations made about the quality and composition of ghee supplied during the previous YSRCP government, particularly claims involving animal fat and adulteration.

The matter has wider sensitivity due to the religious significance of the Tirumala laddu and the sentiments of devotees across the country and abroad.

Chandrababu Naidu’s Remarks and Public Concern

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu had earlier stated that the allegations regarding the use of animal fat instead of pure ghee in the prasadam had the potential to hurt the sentiments of devotees worldwide. He noted that the issue had generated serious concern among pilgrims and the larger Hindu community.

He also expressed a lack of confidence in the state-level inquiry conducted at the time, stating that it did not inspire trust.

Supreme Court Orders Independent Investigation

In view of these concerns, Chandrababu Naidu approached the Supreme Court seeking an independent probe. Acting on the plea, the apex court constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to examine the matter in detail.

The Supreme Court directed the SIT to focus on two specific aspects linked to the ghee supplied in July 2024.

Scope of the SIT Inquiry

The SIT has been tasked with determining whether the ghee supplied during that period contained animal fat or whether it was adulterated in any form. In the event that animal fat is found to have been present, the investigation must also establish whether such ghee was actually used in the preparation of the laddu prasadam offered to devotees.

These directions are aimed at establishing factual clarity on both the quality of the ghee and its eventual use.

Awaiting Findings and Administrative Clarity

The outcome of the SIT investigation is expected to play a crucial role in settling the controversy and addressing concerns raised by devotees. The findings will also have implications for procurement procedures and oversight mechanisms related to prasadam preparation at Tirumala.

Further developments are awaited as the SIT proceeds with its inquiry under the supervision mandated by the Supreme Court.

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