New Delhi, Sep 23 (UNI) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has moved the Supreme Court challenging an Andhra Pradesh High Court order which held that the agency acted in violation of the apex court’s directions while probing the alleged use of adulterated ghee in the preparation of the sacred Tirupati Laddu prasadam.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta mentioned the matter before a bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai and Justice Chandran, requesting an early listing this week. “There is some confusion, please take up later this week,” Mehta submitted. The CJI agreed to hear the matter on Friday, September 26.
The Andhra Pradesh High Court had earlier held that the CBI director exceeded the Supreme Court’s mandate by permitting one J. Venkat Rao, who was not formally part of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), to carry out the investigation.
Since Rao was not named as a representative of the SIT, the High Court ruled he could not assume investigative powers in the matter.
In October last year, the Supreme Court had reconstituted the SIT to probe the Tirupati prasadam controversy, directing that it comprise CBI officers nominated by the Director, two officers of the Andhra Pradesh state police nominated by the state government, and a senior officer of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
Earlier, on September 30, 2024, the Supreme Court had expressed displeasure over Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s public remarks before the state-appointed SIT could release its report.
The court had also asked the Solicitor General to assist on whether the investigation should remain with the state SIT or be handed to an independent authority.
The controversy arose after tests allegedly revealed that the ghee used in preparing the Tirupati Laddu contained impurities, including animal fat, bird meat, lard (pig fat), and fish oil. Several petitions were filed in the Supreme Court seeking accountability and a thorough probe.
Among the petitioners was Sudarshan News editor-in-chief Suresh Chavhanke, who sought an independent investigation into the alleged mismanagement by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) Trust.
He also urged the court to appoint retired judges for the management of prominent temples and shrines, citing violations of Article 25 guaranteeing freedom of conscience and religion.
Given the immense spiritual significance of the Tirumala Tirupati temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, the alleged adulteration has been described by petitioners as a grave violation of Hindu religious practice and sentiments, with non-vegetarian elements strictly prohibited in temple rituals and offerings.
The Supreme Court will take up the CBI’s plea on Friday.
