Quick Read
- Andhra Pradesh formed a one-man committee on Feb 20, 2026, to probe alleged ghee adulteration in Tirumala laddus.
- The committee, led by retired IAS officer Dinesh Kumar, will examine administrative lapses within the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
- This action follows an SIT report filed on Jan 23, 2026, stemming from a 2024 police case.
- Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has vowed that those responsible will face consequences.
- The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is a major Hindu pilgrimage site, and its sacred laddu is a vital offering.
AMARAVATI (Azat TV) – The Andhra Pradesh government has moved to address serious allegations of adulterated ghee being supplied for the sacred Tirumala laddu, a revered offering at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. On February 20, 2026, the state constituted a one-man committee, led by retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Dinesh Kumar, to recommend suitable action against officials of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) implicated in lapses related to the ghee tender conditions.
This decisive step comes after a Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted its report and a self-contained note on January 23, 2026, detailing administrative failures within the TTD. The investigation into the alleged adulteration, which first surfaced with a case registered in 2024 at the Tirupati East Police Station, has drawn significant attention due to the laddu’s profound religious significance to millions of pilgrims worldwide.
Investigation into Tirupati Laddu Integrity
The newly formed committee has been tasked with a comprehensive review of the SIT’s findings. Its mandate includes assessing administrative lapses, omissions, or failures in both the relaxation and enforcement of ghee tender conditions. Dinesh Kumar’s committee will specifically examine whether decisions were made with due diligence, proper recorded justification, and full procedural compliance. The committee is expected to identify the extent of administrative responsibility among TTD officers, committee members, or functionaries and recommend appropriate administrative or disciplinary action. The government order specifies that the committee’s examination will be strictly confined to administrative and governance aspects, with a deadline of 45 days to submit its report.
The Supreme Court of India had previously entrusted the investigation to an independent SIT, operating under the supervision of the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), following an order on October 4, 2024. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, early this month, declared that those found guilty in the case would not be spared, emphasizing the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The Chief Minister also clarified that the SIT had not issued a clean chit to the previous YSRCP government regarding the adulteration allegations, with the CBI-led report recommending administrative action against responsible individuals.
TTD’s Governance Under Scrutiny
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is the independent trust that manages the affairs of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, one of the most visited and wealthiest religious shrines globally. The integrity of the Tirumala laddu, a sacred prasadam, is paramount to pilgrims who visit the temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, a form of Vishnu. Allegations of adulteration directly challenge the sanctity of the offerings and the public trust placed in the TTD’s administration.
The TTD, beyond managing the temple’s daily rituals and pilgrim services, is also involved in various philanthropic and developmental initiatives. For instance, the trust actively invites donations for its Pranadana Trust to support the construction of a Super Speciality Paediatric Hospital in Tirupati, showcasing its commitment to community welfare alongside its religious duties. This broader scope of activities underscores the importance of maintaining robust governance and ethical standards across all its operations.
Beyond the Controversy: Tirupati’s Broader Initiatives
While the laddu controversy dominates headlines, Tirupati continues to be a hub of activity and devotion. Actress Trisha Krishnan recently sought blessings at the Sri Venkateswara Temple, sharing her spiritual experience with her followers. Her visit highlights the temple’s enduring appeal as a spiritual sanctuary for individuals from all walks of life, including prominent personalities.
Furthermore, the Tirupati Municipal Corporation has gained recognition for its Comprehensive Upcycling Initiative under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0. This program transforms discarded materials like clothes, footwear, and books into valuable resources, promoting a circular economy. Through specially designed drop boxes and Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle (RRR) Centres, the city efficiently segregates and processes waste. Usable items are distributed to vulnerable communities, while damaged materials are upcycled by Self-Help Groups into eco-friendly products, creating livelihoods and fostering environmental responsibility. This initiative, while separate from the TTD’s direct operations, reflects a broader commitment to cleanliness and sustainability within the city that hosts the revered temple.
The Andhra Pradesh government’s swift action in constituting a committee to probe the Tirupati laddu adulteration case signals a strong intent to uphold the sanctity of religious offerings and reinforce public trust in the administration of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, a beacon of faith for millions. The outcome of this investigation will be crucial in setting a precedent for governance and accountability within major religious institutions.