The Investigation’s Progress

The CBI SIT has already gathered preliminary information on the procurement process of goods in the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), including details about the tender process and the manner in which the ghee is tested in labs. The CBI has joined forces with state-appointed officials, as per the orders of the Supreme Court, to investigate the allegations thoroughly.

The investigation has centered around Manish Pandey, a procurement official, who filed the initial case about the adulterated ghee. The SIT has conducted site inspections, including visits to the flour mill and lab testing facilities, to scrutinize the quality and origin of the ingredients used in the preparation of the laddus. The CBI has also sent a letter to TTD requesting the necessary facilities and space for the SIT to carry out their work effectively.

Key Findings: Adulterated Ghee

The findings, which include a disturbing report from the NDDB Calf, have revealed that the ghee used in the laddu preparation contained pork and beef fat along with fish oil. This discovery has caused a stir, especially as it concerns the purity of food offered as religious prasad, an issue that has deeply affected Hindu devotees worldwide.

SIT Formation and Investigation Team

The SIT comprises officers from both the state and central government. The Andhra Pradesh government proposed the names of senior officials, including Guntur Range IG Sarvashrestha Tripathi and Visakha Range DIG Gopinath Jetty, while the CBI appointed officials like Hyderabad Zone Joint Director Viresh Prabhu and FSSAI Advisor Dr. Satyen Kumar Panda to join the investigation. The SIT team is working under the supervision of the CBI Director and has already visited Tirupati and Tirumala to gather information.

Infrastructure and Resources for SIT

As the investigation progresses, the CBI has requested TTD to provide a dedicated office space for the SIT, with proper facilities for storing computers, printers, and other vital records. A room for video conferences and an appropriate guesthouse for the investigation team have also been requested to ensure smooth operations. Bhudevi Complex at Alipiri has been suggested as a suitable location for the SIT’s office.

Political Reactions and Public Sentiment

The Congress Party has voiced concerns, stating that the adulterated ghee case has hurt the sentiments of millions of Hindu devotees. Some leaders feel that the investigation might not be necessary, arguing that the emotional impact on the public has been significant enough. However, with the involvement of the Supreme Court, the investigation will continue to uncover the full scope of the allegations.

The Road Ahead

The SIT, comprising over 30 officers, will continue to probe the irregularities surrounding the procurement and supply of ghee used for making Srivari Laddu. With assistance from senior officers, including DSPs, CIs, and SSIs, the SIT is committed to addressing the concerns raised and ensuring that justice is served.

As the investigation moves forward, the SIT aims to uncover the truth behind the adulterated ghee used in one of the most revered prasadams in India, and restore faith among the devotees of Lord Venkateswara.

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