What Happened During the Tirupati Laddu Investigation?
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Synopsis
The ongoing investigation into the TTD laddu ghee adulteration case has taken a dramatic turn as former TTD EO A. V. Dharma Reddy continues to face intense questioning. With connections to high-profile individuals and a network of proxy suppliers, this scandal reveals the complex web of corruption affecting the sacred prasadam.
Key Takeaways
- Former TTD EO A. V. Dharma Reddy continues to face scrutiny.
- A lengthy interrogation by the SIT reveals serious allegations.
- The investigation uncovered a network of proxy suppliers.
- Significant amounts of counterfeit ghee were supplied to TTD.
- The case raises questions about governance in religious institutions.
Tirupati, Nov 12 (NationPress) Former Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) Executive Officer (EO) A. V. Dharma Reddy has appeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) for the second consecutive day on Wednesday as part of the inquiry into the TTD laddu ghee adulteration case.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)-led SIT has been interrogating Dharma Reddy at its temporary office located near Alipiri.
On Tuesday, SIT officials conducted an extensive interrogation lasting nearly nine hours.
Led by CBI DIG Murali Rambha, the officials questioned him regarding lapses during his time in charge of ghee procurement, supplier verification, and quality control measures.
He faced queries about how Bhole Baba Dairy, which was blacklisted by TTD in 2022, allegedly continued its ghee supply through proxy firms.
The SIT recently apprehended one Ajay Kumar Sugandh, who provided various chemicals to Bhole Baba Dairy.
Investigations revealed that Bhole Baba Organic Dairy from Uttarakhand had not procured any milk or butter, yet managed to deliver an astonishing 68 lakh kgs of ghee to TTD from 2019 to 2024 through proxies, including Nellore-based Vyshnavi Dairy, Maharashtra-based Mal Ganga Dairy, and Tamil Nadu-based AR Dairy.
The promoters of Bhole Baba Dairy are alleged to have set up a fully operational fake desi ghee manufacturing unit, supplying 68 lakh kg of counterfeit ghee valued at Rs 250 crore to TTD for the preparation of laddu prasadam.
Last month, the SIT arrested K Chinna Appanna, a close associate of the YSR Congress party's Rajya Sabha member and former TTD chairman Y V Subba Reddy.
Appanna, who served as Subba Reddy's personal assistant from 2014 to 2024, is believed to have played a significant role in awarding contracts to unqualified dairies.
The SIT has reportedly issued notices to Subba Reddy to appear for questioning on November 13.
The alleged laddu scam surfaced after the Telugu Desam Party-led coalition assumed power in June 2024. Subsequently, in September 2025, the state government established an SIT led by Inspector General Sarvashreshta Tripathi to investigate the matter.
However, following petitions challenging the SIT's constitution by the state government, the High Court ordered the formation of a new, independent five-member SIT in October 2024, replacing the state-appointed SIT.
This new SIT includes two CBI officers, two senior police officers from Andhra Pradesh, and one official from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
Point of View
This investigation into the TTD laddu ghee scandal raises significant concerns about transparency and accountability in religious institutions. The high-profile nature of the individuals involved underscores the need for rigorous oversight to maintain public trust in sacred offerings.
NationPress
12/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TTD laddu ghee adulteration case?
The TTD laddu ghee adulteration case involves allegations of counterfeit ghee being supplied to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) for the preparation of sacred laddu prasadam, with inquiries focusing on procurement lapses and proxy suppliers.
Who is A. V. Dharma Reddy?
A. V. Dharma Reddy is the former Executive Officer of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) who is currently under investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) for his role in the laddu ghee adulteration case.
What actions have been taken against those involved?
The SIT has arrested various individuals, including suppliers and associates linked to the alleged fraudulent activities, while also issuing notices to high-profile figures for questioning.
How has the investigation progressed?
The investigation has revealed complex networks involving blacklisted suppliers and counterfeit products, prompting significant scrutiny from law enforcement and the judiciary.
What are the implications of this case?
The implications of this case highlight significant issues regarding the integrity and quality of offerings at religious institutions, raising broader questions about governance and accountability.
