The Supreme Court on Monday criticized Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu for making public allegations that adulterated ghee, containing animal fat, was used in the preparation of the famous Tirupati laddus, without conclusive proof. The court questioned the necessity of going to the press with such claims, especially when an investigation into the matter had already been ordered.
A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan expressed concern over Naidu’s public remarks, noting that individuals holding constitutional offices are expected to keep religion separate from politics. The court pointed out that Naidu made his statement on September 18, despite the fact that the First Information Report (FIR) was only lodged on September 25 and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted on September 26. “At least, the Gods should be kept away from politics,” remarked the bench.
During the hearing, Justice Gavai raised concerns about the Chief Minister’s actions, asking, “What was the need to go to the press immediately? Whether such a statement should have been made that affects the sentiments of the devotees?” The court also criticized Naidu for speaking on the matter before an investigation could yield any results, stating, “When an investigation was ordered, it was not appropriate for a high constitutional functionary to go public with the information.”
Mukul Rohatgi, representing the Andhra Pradesh government, defended the Chief Minister, arguing that the petitions were politically motivated attacks by the previous regime. He added that the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) had issued show cause notices regarding the supply of materials used in the laddus. However, the court questioned the evidence supporting the allegations, asking what proof there was that adulterated ghee had been used.
Advocate Siddharth Luthra, appearing on behalf of the Tirupati Temple, informed the court that investigations were still underway. The court emphasized the need to respect religious sentiments and asked why the laddus that allegedly tasted different were not sent to a lab for testing. Justice Viswanathan also raised a point about seeking second opinions in sensitive matters, stressing that there was no clear proof linking the ghee to contamination.
The court has asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to seek instructions from the Centre regarding whether a central agency investigation is needed. The case will be heard again on Thursday. This issue, sparked by Naidu’s earlier accusations against the previous YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government, has ignited a major political controversy in Andhra Pradesh.
