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The Supreme Court of India is grappling with a fresh Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by social activist KA Paul, demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into allegations of animal fat being used in the preparation of Tirupati laddus, a sacred offering at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, during the previous regime of Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy. This PIL, filed on October 1, 2023, adds another layer to an ongoing controversy that has ignited political tensions in Andhra Pradesh. The case, already in the court's purview with four other petitions, revolves around a statement made by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu who claimed that animal fat was used in the laddus during Reddy's administration.
The Supreme Court, on September 30, raised concerns about the politicization of religious matters, stating that Gods should not be dragged into political agendas. The court also questioned the validity of a laboratory test report submitted by the Andhra Pradesh government, deeming it unclear and suggesting that the tested ghee was not the same used in the laddus. Paul, in his PIL, highlights the distress caused by these accusations, alleging that they have tarnished the sanctity of the offering and undermined the religious sentiments of countless devotees. He emphasizes the potential for communal tensions and violation of religious freedom guaranteed by Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, citing the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams' significance as a global Hindu pilgrimage site.
The controversy erupted earlier this month when Naidu accused the previous government of using substandard ingredients, including adulterated ghee, in the laddus. While the YSR Congress Party accused Naidu of exploiting the issue for political gain, the ruling Telugu Desam Party presented a laboratory report to support their claim. This has led to a heated political debate with both parties vying for public support. The Supreme Court, now facing a pile of petitions, is tasked with navigating a complex issue that intersects religion, politics, and public health, while also maintaining its role as a protector of fundamental rights and the integrity of religious practices. The court's final decision on the PIL, and its broader implications for both religious institutions and political discourse in India, will be closely watched by millions of devotees and political observers alike.
Source: Fresh PIL seeking CBI probe into Tirupati laddus row filed in SC