SIT Probe Finds Milkless Ghee Used in Tirumala Laddu Preparation

The investigation into the Tirumala Srivari laddu ghee scam has concluded, bringing clarity to a case that drew nationwide attention. The controversy erupted after allegations emerged that adulterated ghee was used in the preparation of the sacred laddu prasadam during the YSRCP government’s tenure. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan had publicly alleged that animal fat and other harmful substances were mixed into the ghee, compromising the sanctity of the Tirumala temple.

Following the uproar, the Supreme Court intervened and ordered a probe by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The SIT carried out an extensive investigation for nearly 15 months, tracing the adulteration network across 12 states.

On Friday, the CBI SIT filed its charge sheet in a local court in Nellore. The charge sheet names 24 individuals as accused and identifies Bole Baba Organic Dairy as the primary supplier of the adulterated ghee used in laddu preparation.

According to the investigation findings, the ghee was manufactured without using milk. Instead, artificial chemicals and palm oil were allegedly used. The directors of Bole Baba Dairy, Pomal Jain and Vipin Jain, have been named as the key masterminds behind the operation. The charge sheet also reveals the involvement of several companies and individuals from Andhra Pradesh and other states.

Around 30 officials from the CBI and the Food Safety Department jointly conducted the probe, during which multiple arrests were made. The SIT noted that the ghee supply contract was awarded to Bole Baba Dairy following a decision by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) board. Despite receiving information about possible adulteration, alleged compromises were made, warnings were ignored, and lapses occurred at the field level.

The charge sheet further states that some officials overlooked quality standards due to alleged commission interests. With the investigation now complete, the case enters the legal phase, as devotees and the public await strict action against those responsible.

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