India News
The Supreme Court has criticized Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu regarding the Tirumala Laddu controversy. The court expressed concern that the CM spoke to the media without obtaining a second opinion on such a sensitive matter affecting the sentiments of millions of devotees.
The controversy erupted after allegations surfaced that adulterated ghee was used in the preparation of the famous Tirumala laddus. This issue not only stirred the state but also caught the attention of the central government. BJP leader Subramanian Swamy and YSRCP leader YV Subba Reddy, among others, filed petitions in the Supreme Court regarding the issue.
The Supreme Court bench, hearing the petitions, questioned the lack of evidence to support claims of adulteration. The court asked whether ghee samples were tested and, if so, why laddus were not also sent for testing. It further criticized the CM for making public statements before the investigation was complete, noting that such remarks could hurt the sentiments of devotees.
The court also raised doubts about the transparency of the current Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe, suggesting that an independent investigation might be necessary. The next hearing is scheduled for Thursday.
This verdict is seen as a setback for the Chandrababu Naidu government. The court's comments, particularly its advice to keep religious matters away from politics, are seen as indirect criticism of the Andhra Pradesh administration. The YSRCP, which has been accusing the TDP of using this issue as a diversionary tactic, believes the Supreme Court’s remarks lend further credibility to their claims. Many now view the controversy as politically motivated, aimed at distracting the public.
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