Allegations of Adulterated Ghee in Tirumala Laddu: SIT Report Triggers Nationwide Outrage!

The alleged use of adulterated ghee in the preparation of the sacred Tirumala Srivari Laddu Prasadam has sparked widespread outrage among devotees across the country. According to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Supreme Court, chemical-mixed substances such as palm oil and palm kernel oil were supplied to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) under the label of “special-grade cow ghee.” The SIT report confirmed that nearly 5.97 million kilograms of adulterated ghee were delivered and subsequently used in laddu preparation, calling it a serious violation of religious sanctity and public trust.

Investigators stated that long-standing procurement norms were diluted during the previous administration, allowing unverified firms to secure tenders. The probe reportedly identified internal collusion and financial irregularities amounting to nearly ₹234 crore. The SIT named certain former officials as key facilitators in the supply chain. Despite clear findings, political attempts to downplay the issue have drawn sharp criticism. Legal experts note that the Supreme Court has previously ruled that food adulteration, especially involving dairy products, constitutes a grave offence with severe punishment. Devotees and religious bodies are now demanding strict action against all those responsible for compromising the purity of Lord Venkateswara’s divine offering.