In a significant development in the Tirumala laddu adulteration controversy, the Supreme Court of India has upheld the Andhra Pradesh government’s decision to appoint a one-member committee to probe the issue. The verdict is being seen as a major relief for the ruling coalition government.

Petition Challenging One-Member Committee

The Andhra Pradesh government had recently constituted a one-member inquiry committee headed by retired IAS officer Dinesh Kumar to investigate the alleged adulteration of Tirumala laddus.

However, senior politician Subramanian Swamy filed a petition in the Supreme Court objecting to the formation of this separate panel, arguing against parallel investigations.

The matter was heard by a bench led by the Chief Justice, and the court delivered a key ruling dismissing Swamy’s petition.

Court Allows Parallel Probes

The Supreme Court clarified that both the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and the government-appointed one-member committee can continue their respective investigations independently. The court observed that one inquiry would not influence or interfere with the other.

Earlier, an SIT had been constituted following directions from the apex court to investigate allegations of adulteration in the preparation and supply of Tirumala laddus. The SIT has already filed a chargesheet detailing developments in the case.

By allowing the state-appointed panel to function alongside the SIT, the court effectively gave a green signal to the government’s approach.

Political and Administrative Impact

The verdict has added a fresh twist to the already politically sensitive issue. The Tirumala laddu controversy has triggered intense debate and counter-criticism in Andhra Pradesh, with opposition parties questioning the government’s intentions behind forming a separate committee.

With the Supreme Court’s approval, the one-member panel led by Dinesh Kumar will now proceed with its probe, reportedly focusing on identifying the masterminds behind the alleged adulteration.

Key Entities

Supreme Court of India
Subramanian Swamy – Petitioner
Dinesh Kumar – Head of One-Member Committee
Andhra Pradesh Government – Appointed Panel
Special Investigation Team (SIT) – Filed Chargesheet

Final Verdict

The Supreme Court’s decision to permit both the SIT and the state-appointed one-member committee to continue their investigations marks a turning point in the Tirumala laddu case. By dismissing the petition against the committee, the court has provided legal backing to the Andhra Pradesh government’s move. As parallel probes progress, the focus now shifts to uncovering the full facts and identifying those responsible in this high-profile and sensitive controversy.