By Allegations that animal fat was mixed in the sacred Tirumala Tripathi prasadam, a symbol of faith, have sparked outrage across Andhra Pradesh and the entire country. The controversy over adulteration of Tirumala’s Srivari prasadam has also escalated politically, gradually turning into a storm. Verbal clashes are erupting between the TDP-Janasena-BJP alliance government and the YSRCP.
Allegations that animal fat was mixed in the sacred Tirumala prasadam, a symbol of faith, have caused a nationwide uproar, particularly in Andhra Pradesh. The controversy surrounding the adulteration of Tirumala’s Srivari prasadam has also gained political traction, gradually turning into a storm between the TDP-Janasena-BJP alliance government and the YSRCP, with verbal clashes erupting. In response, the Andhra Pradesh government, led by Chandrababu Naidu, has made a crucial decision to uncover the truth. On Tuesday, they formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the Tirumala Laddu controversy, appointing Sarvashreshtha Tripathi, currently the Guntur Range IG, as the SIT chief. Gopinath Jetty and Harshavardhan Raju have been appointed as SIT members, with Gopinath Jetty currently serving as Visakhapatnam DIG and Harshavardhan Raju as the Kadapa SP.
The SIT will investigate the purchase of cow ghee in Tirumala, the tender process, and the reasons behind the supply of adulterated ghee. They will also probe past allegations regarding the credibility of AR Dairy and investigate possible irregularities in awarding contracts. Based on the SIT report, the Andhra Pradesh government will take action against those found responsible, including looking into transactions between TTD and AR Dairy.
Chandrababu carefully reviewed several names before forming the SIT (Special Investigation Team) on the Tirumala Laddu adulteration issue. Before finalizing the SIT today, the Chief Minister conducted extensive discussions, including consultations with the DGP yesterday. He considered SEB Director Vineet Brijlal, Guntur IG Sarvashreshtha Tripathi, Technical Services IG PhD Ramakrishna, and Law & Order IG Srikanth for the SIT Chief role. Eventually, Tripathi’s name was finalized for the position.
YSRCP’s Reaction:
YSRCP leaders, however, have expressed distrust in the SIT, stating they have no faith in it. They are demanding an investigation by the CBI or a Supreme Court sitting judge instead.
