The issue gained momentum after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy’s predecessor, N. Chandrababu Naidu, accused the previous administration of using animal fat in the sacred offering, leading to a fierce political exchange. This statement sparked widespread outrage, particularly among religious devotees and political groups, who called for accountability and transparency in the investigation.
The court, in a previous session, expressed its concern over the growing politicization of religious matters. It questioned Chief Minister Reddy’s public comments on the issue before an official inquiry had concluded. The bench urged restraint, emphasizing the need for an impartial investigation that remains free from political influence.
As the court proceeds with the hearings, one of the key decisions will be whether to maintain the investigation under the Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the state government or to transfer the case to an independent agency. The SIT, formed after a First Information Report (FIR) was filed, has been tasked with investigating the allegations, though its credibility is now under scrutiny from opposition groups who claim political bias.
The controversy has stirred significant tension in Andhra Pradesh, with political parties exploiting the situation to rally their respective bases. While Naidu’s party is calling for a deeper, independent probe, the ruling government has denied any wrongdoing, insisting that the allegations are politically motivated. The growing discord has not only drawn national attention but also raised concerns about how religious sentiments are being leveraged for political gain.
The court's decision could have far-reaching implications, not just for the individuals involved, but also for how religious matters intersect with politics in India. By addressing the role of political discourse in religious controversies, the judiciary is expected to set a precedent for handling similar cases in the future. The Supreme Court’s deliberations are likely to focus on safeguarding the integrity of religious practices while ensuring that such issues are not manipulated for political purposes.