Tirumala Laddu Row: Govt Expands Investigation Team

The Andhra Pradesh government has accelerated its response to allegations of adulterated ghee in the preparation of the sacred laddu prasadam at the Tirumala temple. Acting on the findings of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) , the state is moving towards initiating disciplinary and legal action against those held accountable.

The SIT, constituted following directions from the Supreme Court, completed its probe and filed a chargesheet before the court on January 23. It also submitted a detailed note outlining key findings. The report reportedly flags concerns over the quality of ghee used in laddu preparation and examines the role of certain senior officials and committee members of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) during the period in question.

To review the findings and recommend action, the government had earlier appointed a one-member panel headed by retired IAS officer Dinesh Kumar . The committee has been tasked with suggesting appropriate departmental and legal measures based on the SIT’s conclusions.

To expedite the process, the government strengthened the panel with additional administrative support. Retired IFS officer Munindra has been appointed Officer on Special Duty (OSD) , while retired Assistant Secretary P.B.V.S.S. Shivakumar will serve as Personal Secretary to the committee.

The government’s swift follow-up is being seen as a precursor to possible administrative reforms within the TTD. With the final report expected soon, former senior officials are closely watching developments amid growing anticipation over potential action.