The Special Investigation Team (SIT) established to examine the issue has suspended its activities as a precautionary step following criticism from the Supreme Court. On Monday, the court questioned the state government’s decision to make public accusations of contamination without clear evidence. Andhra Pradesh's top police official, Dwaraka Tirumala Rao, announced that while inspections and preliminary investigations had been carried out, the probe would remain on hold until the court clarifies its position.
This controversy stems from statements by former Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, who cited a laboratory report allegedly showing the presence of beef tallow, pork fat, and fish oil in the ghee used to make the laddus during the previous government’s rule. Naidu's claims were met with sharp denials from Reddy, who firmly rejected the allegations.
The Supreme Court bench, led by Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan, expressed concerns over politicizing religious issues, emphasizing that such matters should not be influenced by political agendas. The court hinted at the possibility of transferring the investigation to an independent agency if further lapses were detected.
As the case continues to unfold, both political figures and devotees are watching closely. The laddus, made as offerings to the deity at Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, hold great religious significance for millions of worshippers who visit the temple every year. Thus, any claim of adulteration, especially involving animal fats, could have wide-ranging religious and political ramifications.