Fresh PIL Demands CBI Probe on Alleged Use of Animal Fat in Tirupati Laddus

A new Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking a CBI investigation into allegations that animal fat was used in the preparation of Tirupati laddus under the previous Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy-led regime. The PIL has raised serious concerns among devotees and highlighted potential religious rights violations.

A fresh Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was lodged in the Supreme Court on Tuesday, demanding a CBI investigation into claims of using animal fat in making Tirupati laddus during the tenure of the previous Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy-led administration.

Social activist K A Paul, who also presides over the 'Global Peace Initiative', filed the petition seeking a comprehensive probe into the alleged corruption and mismanagement in the procurement and preparation of the sacred Laddu Prasadam.

The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan, is already considering four other petitions on this matter. Recently, the apex court remarked that divine affairs should be kept separate from politics, questioning current Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's allegations of animal fat use. Laboratory test results were inconclusive, showing only that 'rejected ghee' was examined.

Paul's petition underlined the serious concerns among devotees, noting that any compromise on the sanctity of the Laddu Prasadam affects millions of followers, tarnishing the reputation of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. The petition cites Article 25 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion, stressing that the controversy may escalate communal tensions and undermine sacred traditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)