Supreme Court Initiates Independent Probe Into Tirumala Temple Laddu Scandal

The Supreme Court has set up a Special Investigation Team to probe the alleged use of animal fat in Tirumala temple's laddu prasadam. This decision replaces the state-commissioned SIT, aiming to ensure an unbiased investigation into the allegations involving a temple revered by millions worldwide.

The Supreme Court, in a significant move on Friday, established an independent Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve into the allegations regarding the use of animal fat in prasadam laddus at the renowned Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh. This revered site is one of the world's most popular pilgrimage destinations where Lord Venkateswara is worshipped.

A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan underscored the global concern among devotees over Tirumala prasadam, stressing the need to avoid any 'political drama' surrounding the issue. The court's decision mandates forming a new SIT featuring two officers each from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Andhra Pradesh state police, as well as a senior official from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The CBI director will supervise this team, replacing the previously established state SIT.

The court clarified that its ruling was not a critique of the state-formed SIT's credibility and stressed its intention to prevent the judicial system from becoming a ground for political conflict. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, advocating for the Centre, suggested supervision by a central officer for the state-SIT. This stance was countered by Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal and others demanding an independent investigation against the backdrop of previous accusations by Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister.

(With inputs from agencies.)