The supreme court expressed strong disapproval on monday regarding the andhra pradesh government's handling of the controversy surrounding tirupati laddoos and prasadam, emphasizing that political interference should be kept away from religious matters.
Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan criticized a "high constitutional functionary" for making statements that could influence public sentiment. Justice Gavai remarked, “You ordered an SIT; why go to the press before the results are out? We expect divine matters to remain separate from politics.” The court was reviewing petitions for a court-monitored investigation into allegations made by chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu, claiming that the prior YSRCP administration used animal fat in the ghee for the sacred offerings at the sri venkateswara swamy temple.
The court noted, “While investigations are ongoing, it is inappropriate for a high official to make statements that could sway public opinion.” Setting the next hearing for october 3, the court suggested that the solicitor general assist in determining whether the special investigation team (SIT) should continue or if an independent agency should take over.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that if the ghee was indeed contaminated, it posed a serious issue of faith for millions. The court urged the state government to clarify its evidence of contaminated ghee and questioned why it released lab results to the press before completing its investigation. “What was the purpose of the investigation if you were already going public?” Justice Viswanathan inquired.
Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing the state, claimed the petitions lacked authenticity and were attempts to undermine the current government. Senior advocate siddharth Luthra explained that the ghee was sourced from private vendors, and complaints about quality had led to notices being issued.
Justice Gavai reminded the government to respect religious sentiments, while Justice Viswanathan demanded proof that the alleged ghee was actually used in the laddoos. Luthra provided a timeline of events, indicating that further testing was conducted once issues were identified.
The controversy erupted after chief minister Naidu accused his predecessor, jagan mohan reddy-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">ys jagan mohan reddy, of using "beef tallow" in the ghee for the laddoos, alleging sacrilege at a revered temple. This sparked outrage among Hindus, claiming their religious sentiments were hurt. On september 27, the state government established a nine-member SIT to investigate the claims of adulteration. Naidu announced this investigation on september 22, asserting the government’s commitment to uphold the sanctity of the tirumala tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the temple’s governing body. However, YSRCP leaders called for a supreme Court-monitored investigation, criticizing the adequacy of an SIT reporting to the Chief Minister.