Tirupati Laddu Scandal: Supreme Court Intervenes, Forms Special Investigation Team

In a significant move on October 4, the Supreme Court established an independent Special Investigation Team (SIT)to delve into the allegations concerning the use of adulterated ghee in the laddus offered at the Tirumala Tirupati Temple. This decision underscores the court’s commitment to maintaining the sanctity of religious offerings and addressing the concerns of millions of devotees.

Formation of the Special Investigation Team

• The newly formed SIT replaces the previous team constituted by the Andhra Pradesh Government. This change aims to enhance the investigation’s credibility and ensure impartiality in handling the sensitive issue.
• The investigation will be monitored by the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), reflecting the case’s high stakes and the need for rigorous scrutiny.

Background and Judicial Observations

• The controversy ignited when allegations surfaced about the potential adulteration of ghee, a key ingredient in the sacred laddus distributed as prasadam at the temple.
• “We clarfiy that we will not permit the Court to be used as a political battleground,” the court stated, emphasizing its intent to focus solely on the factual aspects of the case without political interference.

Details of the Investigation Team

• The SIT will comprise two officers from the CBI, nominated by the CBI Director, two officers from the Andhra Pradesh State Police, and a senior official from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
• This diverse composition is intended to bring a balanced approach to the investigation, pooling expertise from various fields relevant to the case.

Legal Proceedings and Advocates’ Arguments

• Senior Advocate Siddharth Luthra represented the Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam (TTD) and stressed the importance of verifying facts through reliable sources rather than media reports.
• Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, arguing for former TTD Chairman YV Subba Reddy, highlighted the need for an independent investigation, particularly in light of previous statements by AP Chief Minister Chandrababu Naiduthat could prejudice the investigation.

Court’s Rationale and Future Directions

• Justice BR Gavai articulated the need for an independent SIT to foster public confidence in the investigation’s outcomes.
• The next hearing is scheduled for October 16, where further developments in the investigation will be reviewed, and additional directions may be issued based on the findings and progress reported by the SIT.

Implications of the Court’s Decision

• The court’s directive aims not only to resolve the current allegations but also to prevent any undermining of trust in the offerings made at one of Hinduism’s holiest sites.
• By involving the CBI and FSSAI, the investigation is positioned to rigorously address both the legal and health safety concerns raised by the allegations.

Dr Subramanian Swamy v. State of Andhra Pradesh and Others, W.P.(C) No. 622/2024 (and connected cases)