NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court of India has issued a stern warning against the politicization of religious matters in the ongoing Tirupati Laddu controversy. The court emphasized that “Gods should be kept away from politics” while hearing petitions regarding allegations that animal fat was used in the preparation of the famous Tirupati laddus.
The Bench, led by Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan, questioned the basis of these claims, pointing out that lab results did not definitively show adulteration.
The court expressed concern over Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s public statements made on September 18, 2024, about the alleged use of animal fat in the laddus, despite an FIR only being filed on September 25. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to investigate the claims the following day, on September 26.
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Justice Gavai emphasized the need for restraint by public officials, stating that those in high office should act cautiously before making such allegations. He further clarified that while substances like soybean or palm oil might have been used, there was no evidence to suggest that fish oil was involved. The court urged that religious sanctity should not be exploited for political purposes, remarking, “At least, we expect the Gods to be kept away from politics.”
The Supreme Court has asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to assist in determining whether the investigation should be conducted by the state-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) or an independent agency. The court scheduled the next hearing for October 3, 2024, with multiple pleas calling for a court-monitored probe. The Solicitor General stressed that the matter involves faith and that the use of contaminated ghee in the preparation of laddus would be unacceptable.
The controversy began after Naidu accused the previous Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy government of using animal fat in the preparation of the sacred laddus, which led to a political uproar. The YSR Congress Party has dismissed the allegations, condemning them as a tactic for political gain.