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CBI Arrests Four in Tirupati Laddu Adulteration Case

A Supreme Court-ordered probe reveals serious violations in ghee supply for the iconic temple prasadam, leading to arrests of dairy officials.

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The Tirupati laddu is made by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam which manages the Tirumala Venkateswara temple.
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Overview

  • The CBI-led Special Investigation Team arrested four individuals, including officials from Bhole Baba Dairy, Vaishnavi Dairy, and AR Dairy, for alleged adulteration of ghee used in Tirupati laddus.
  • The SIT uncovered fraudulent tender processes and falsified records, with Vaishnavi Dairy falsely claiming to source ghee from Bhole Baba Dairy, which lacked the capacity to meet demand.
  • The investigation was initiated following Supreme Court orders to probe allegations of animal fat being used in the laddus, a claim that sparked nationwide outrage and political controversy.
  • The five-member SIT included officials from the CBI, Andhra Pradesh Police, and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, ensuring a thorough and collaborative inquiry.
  • The controversy has drawn political attention, with Andhra Pradesh's current and former chief ministers trading accusations over the alleged use of substandard ingredients.