In a significant development in the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) laddu ghee adulteration case, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) court in Nellore has dismissed the bail petition of the former procurement general manager, RSSV Subrahmanyam. The court's decision came on Friday, following strong opposition from the prosecution representing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)-led special investigation team (SIT).
Court Hears Allegations of Massive Financial Loss
Opposing the bail plea, Assistant Public Prosecutor Jaya Sekhar, arguing for the Supreme Court-appointed CBI SIT, presented a grave picture of the alleged fraud. The prosecution brought to the court's notice that the supply of adulterated ghee for the preparation of the sacred Tirupati laddus caused an estimated financial loss of more than Rs 100 crore to the temple trust. This staggering figure underscored the severe economic impact of the scandal on one of the world's richest religious institutions.
Key Role and Collusion Allegations
The prosecution's submission detailed the accused's alleged central role in the multi-year scam. It was argued that Subrahmanyam colluded with private dairy firms and played a crucial part in facilitating the supply of the substandard ghee. The alleged adulteration and supply chain manipulation are said to have occurred over a prolonged period, between 2018 and 2023, before the irregularities were uncovered and investigated.
Why Bail Was Denied
The court's decision to dismiss the bail petition was influenced by several factors presented by the CBI SIT. The primary reasons included:
- The enormity of the alleged financial loss (over Rs 100 crore) to TTD.
- The seriousness of the charges, which involve adulteration of a sacred food offering.
- Subrahmanyam's alleged pivotal role as a senior official in enabling the scam.
- Concerns over potential influence on witnesses or tampering with evidence if bail was granted.
The court found merit in the prosecution's arguments that the accused, given his former senior position and alleged deep involvement, could obstruct the ongoing investigation if released.
Broader Implications and Next Steps
This case has sent shockwaves through the devotees' community and raised serious questions about procurement and quality control processes within the TTD. The dismissal of the bail plea indicates the judiciary's firm stance on addressing corruption and malpractice in the administration of religious institutions. The CBI-led SIT continues its probe into the wider network, including the private dairy firms implicated in the case. The former TTD general manager will remain in judicial custody as the legal proceedings advance.
