The Special Investigation Team on Wednesday filed its final chargesheet in the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams laddu ghee adulteration case, shedding light on the nature and extent of adulteration in the sacred offering. According to the chargesheet, the ghee used in the preparation of TTD laddus was found to be heavily adulterated with vegetable oils, mainly palm oil and palm kernel oil. The investigation has ruled out the presence of animal fat.
The findings are based on scientific analysis carried out by the National Dairy Development Board’s Centre for Analysis and Learning in Livestock and Food, Anand. The NDDB CALF report dated March 27, 2025 has been submitted as part of the chargesheet. The report concluded that the composition of the samples tested did not meet the standards required for pure ghee and showed significant deviation due to the addition of vegetable oils.
The SIT stated that the adulteration was systematic and not incidental. Investigators examined procurement records, supply chains, and financial transactions related to the sourcing of ghee. The chargesheet indicates that substandard and adulterated material was supplied despite contractual requirements mandating quality compliance.
The investigation also flagged financial irregularities associated with the procurement process. According to the SIT, money trails linked to the supply of adulterated ghee suggest the involvement of illegal financial transactions. The chargesheet refers to suspected hawala channels being used to facilitate payments, raising concerns about corruption and deliberate malpractice.
Officials said the adulteration compromised the quality of laddus distributed to devotees and violated established food safety norms. The SIT has named multiple individuals and entities in the chargesheet, including suppliers and intermediaries involved in the procurement and distribution process. Legal proceedings will determine individual accountability based on evidence presented.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams administration has stated earlier that it is committed to ensuring the highest quality standards for prasadam preparation and has taken corrective measures following the revelation of irregularities. These include stricter quality checks, enhanced supplier scrutiny, and tighter monitoring of procurement procedures.
The SIT emphasised that the absence of animal fat in the samples should not dilute the seriousness of the offence. Adulteration with vegetable oils, especially palm-based oils, constitutes a violation of food safety regulations and breaches the trust of devotees. The report underlined that religious offerings must adhere to the highest standards of purity.
Legal experts note that the submission of the final chargesheet marks a critical stage in the case. The matter will now proceed to trial, where the findings of the SIT and the NDDB CALF report will be examined by the court. The accused will have the opportunity to present their defence during the judicial process.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to the religious and cultural importance of the TTD laddus. Authorities have reiterated that steps are being taken to prevent any recurrence and to restore public confidence in the integrity of the prasadam supply chain.
