The Indian public’s awareness has been drawn to its investigation following reports of adulteration of ghee used in preparing the Tirumala SRIVARI Laddu Prasadam. A Special Investigation Team, or SIT, under the Commission for the Coordination of the CBI has been appointed to do this. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) has therefore vowed to support the investigation fully.
The allegation of adulteration in the ghee supplied for laddus has credibility based on a report from the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). The Union Health Department has said that an appropriate course of action will be taken under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This one is an actual Supreme Court case and it is ready for a deep probe.
Formation of the Special Investigation Team (SIT)
As per the directives of the Apex court, both central and the State governments are involved in constituting the SIT. The AP Government served proposals to Guntur Range IG sarvashrestha Tripathi and Visakha Range DIG Gopinath Jetty as a part of a member team.
On its part, the CBI constituted a three-member team from Hyderabad comprising Joint Director Viresh Prabhu, Visakha SP Murali Ramba, and FSSAI Quality Assurance Advisor Dr. Satyen Kumar Panda to conduct the central investigation. These combined actions indicate that the allegations are severe and want to ensure that the public knows what is going on within the investigation.
Preliminary Investigations and Findings
The state government had previously initiated its inquiry, deploying a team of officials to Tirupati and Tirumala for a three-day investigation. They gathered statements from key personnel, including Procurement GM Muralikrishna, who initially reported the adulteration. Following site inspections of the flour mill and lab facilities, a preliminary report was prepared.
Subsequently, the state government set aside its inquiry team as per Supreme Court orders to allow the centrally constituted SIT to take over. The CBI SIT has since delved into TTD’s procurement procedures, tender processes, and laboratory testing methods. Early findings revealed that the company contracted to supply ghee had sourced it from another vendor, raising concerns about the supply chain’s integrity.
Operational Framework of the SIT
The CBI SIT is leaving no stone unturned in its field-level investigation. It has sought a dedicated office space in Tirupati to facilitate its operations, suggesting the Bhudevi Complex at Alipiri as a suitable location. The team has requested provisions for computers, printers, and video conferencing facilities, as well as accommodation for its officers.
The investigation will involve a robust team of 30 officers, including four Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), eight Circle Inspectors (CIs), and two Sub-Inspectors (SSIs), alongside ministerial staff. The SIT has also written to TTD for additional resources and a guest house to support its inquiry.
Allegations of Adulteration and Evidence
The NDDB report has provided crucial evidence suggesting that the adulterated ghee used in laddus contained pork, beef fat, and fish oil. This revelation has not only shocked devotees but also prompted worldwide criticism. TTD and the government are committed to eradicating such malpractices and ensuring the sanctity of the prasadam.
The central team plans to examine procurement records and conduct comprehensive testing to validate these findings. The investigation is expected to shed light on irregularities in the supply chain and hold those responsible accountable.
Political and Public Reactions
The case has evoked strong reactions, with many highlighting its impact on the sentiments of millions of Hindus. The Congress party has questioned the need for an investigation, arguing that the damage to religious sentiments is already irreparable. Meanwhile, devotees and activists are demanding swift justice and stringent measures to prevent future occurrences.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The SIT’s mandate includes submitting a detailed report to the Supreme Court, addressing the allegations and irregularities uncovered during the inquiry. The team will accelerate its efforts to conclude the investigation and restore faith in the sanctity of Tirumala’s laddus.
With cooperation from TTD and the necessary resources in place, the investigation is poised to answer critical questions about the adulterated ghee case, ensuring accountability and upholding the trust of devotees worldwide.
