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The ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged adulteration of ghee used in making the Tirupati laddu prasadams has taken a significant turn with the Supreme Court of India establishing a five-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a thorough probe. This development has been met with approval from Andhra Pradesh Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, who expressed confidence in the SIT's ability to uncover the truth behind the allegations.
The Minister highlighted the importance of the SIT, stating that it will address the concerns of millions of devotees across the globe who hold the Tirupati temple and its rituals in high regard. The SIT comprises two officials each from the State and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), along with an expert from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This diverse composition, according to Mr. Reddy, will provide a comprehensive perspective and allow for a more in-depth investigation.
The Minister further emphasized that the Supreme Court's decision to form the SIT does not reflect negatively on the initial investigation conducted by the State government. However, he maintained that the court's directive to expand the scope of the probe is a positive step towards ensuring transparency and accountability. In a critical statement, Mr. Reddy questioned the actions of former TTD Trust Board Chairman Y.V. Subba Reddy, who had sought a stay from the Supreme Court on the vigilance inquiry into alleged irregularities during his tenure. The Minister viewed this move as an indication of Mr. Subba Reddy's potential involvement in the controversy.
Mr. Reddy alleged that Mr. Subba Reddy's period as chairman was marked by several questionable practices, including a decline in the quality of prasadams, and manipulation of tender norms in the procurement of ghee and other construction projects. He asserted that the current government is committed to restoring the sanctity of Tirumala and addressing the hurt sentiments of devotees. Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Home Minister V. Anitha echoed similar sentiments, welcoming the formation of the SIT and expressing her belief in the eventual triumph of truth. She also challenged YSRCP leaders to a debate regarding the developmental initiatives undertaken by the NDA government over the past 100 days.