The Supreme Court began hearing the Tirupati laddu controversy today, emphasizing the need to keep God away from politics. During the proceedings, Justice Bhushan R. Gavai and Justice K.V. Vishwanathan listened to arguments regarding the alleged mishandling of prasad at the Tirupati temple.
Subramanian Swamy’s lawyer informed the bench that construction materials were being sent to the kitchen without proper inspection, which raised concerns about the integrity of the prasad, deemed sacred by devotees.
The petitions before the court call for a court-monitored investigation into allegations made by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, who claims that animal fat and fish oil were used in the preparation of the laddu. In response, a state government body is currently in Tirupati to assess the quality of prasadam and ghee utilized in the laddu-making process.
Senior advocate Siddharth represented the Tirupati temple board, while senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi appeared for the Andhra Pradesh government. Justice Gavai pointed out the constitutional obligation to keep religious matters separate from political agendas.
The court also questioned Rohatgi about the need for media commentary while an SIT investigation was underway, highlighting that this was not the first time such issues had arisen. Rohatgi contended that the petitions were not genuine and suggested they were attempts by the previous government to undermine the current administration.
