Tirupati Laddu Row: SC Tells Andhra Govt To Keep God Away From Politics; Asks What Was Need To Go To Press?

The Supreme Court of India recently on Monday heard the petitions concerning the alleged use of animal fat in laddus offered as Prasadam at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala. During the hearing, the court advised the Andhra Pradesh government to refrain from involving deities in political matters. The court questioned whether non-conforming ghee was used for the prasadam, to which the state replied that investigations are ongoing.

Senior advocate Rajshekhar Rao, representing Subramanian Swamy, expressed concerns about statements made in the press regarding prasadam contamination. He highlighted that such claims could have significant implications and potentially disrupt communal harmony. "These are matters of concern. If there is a question mark on the deity's prasadam then it has to be examined," he stated.

Supreme Court's Concerns

The Supreme Court questioned why there was an immediate need to go press with these allegations, emphasising respect for religious sentiments. The court noted that lab reports indicated the tested ghee was rejected. It asked why Andhra Pradesh went public after ordering a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into this matter.

The SIT has already begun its investigation into the alleged adulteration of Tirupati Laddus. The team visited Tirupati and held a meeting at Padmavathi Guest House to examine these claims further. This development followed several petitions filed last week concerning this issue.

Political Reactions

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu initially claimed that substandard ingredients, including animal fat, were used during the previous YSRCP government's tenure. In response, YSRCP leader Jagan Mohan Reddy accused Naidu of lying about the Tirupati Laddu Prasadam and stated that ghee procurement through e-tendering is a long-standing practice.

Reddy further alleged that Naidu raised this issue to divert political attention. He criticised the state's actions, claiming they obstructed his planned visit to Tirumala temple by issuing notices prohibiting participation without necessary approvals.

Petitioners' Demands

BJP leader Subramanian Swamy and former Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam Trust president YV Subba Reddy filed petitions demanding an investigation into these allegations. Swamy's petition specifically called for scrutiny over claims made by CM Naidu regarding animal fat usage in laddus.

Swamy's lawyer argued that raw materials for prasadam were reaching kitchens without inspection and stressed the need for a responsible oversight system. "Because this is the prasad of the deity, it is extremely sacred for the public and devotees," he emphasised.

Next Steps

The Supreme Court has scheduled another hearing on October 3, 2024, at 3:30 pm. It has requested Solicitor General Tushar Mehta's assistance in deciding whether an independent agency should conduct further investigations or if the current SIT should continue its probe.

This case highlights tensions between religious practices and political narratives in Andhra Pradesh. As investigations proceed, many await clarity on these serious allegations affecting both faith and governance.