Kochi: A sixteen-month controversy over the alleged use of animal fat in the sacred Tirupati laddu has culminated in a definitive finding by a CBI-led Special Investigation Team (SIT). In its final chargesheet filed on January 23, 2026, the SIT ruled out the presence of beef tallow or lard, debunking the explosive claims made by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu in 2024. Instead, investigators uncovered a massive industrial fraud involving synthetic ghee made from vegetable oils and chemical esters.
The investigation has exposed a complex supply chain designed to bypass the quality control protocols of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The primary supplier, Uttarakhand-based Bhole Baba Organic Dairy, was found to be operating a “virtual” manufacturing unit. Despite processing zero litres of milk or butter, the firm supplied 68 lakh kilograms of “ghee” to the temple between 2019 and 2024, valued at approximately Rs 250 crore.
According to the chargesheet, the syndicate used a base of palm oil and palmolein sourced from Kolkata, spiked with Acetic Acid Esters to artificially inflate purity readings (Reichert-Meissl values). Beta Carotene and artificial flavouring were added to replicate the colour and aroma of genuine cow ghee. The SIT, supported by FSSAI experts, confirmed that the scientific deviations originally cited as evidence of animal fat were actually caused by these vegetable oils and chemical additives.
The probe has implicated 36 individuals, including TTD officials and private dairy operators. Key accused include RSSVR Subrahmanyam, the former General Manager (Procurement) at TTD, and Vijaya Bhaskar Reddy, an external expert who allegedly falsified inspection reports. The chargesheet also details severe hygiene violations, including an instance where rejected ghee was "re-refined" at a stone-crushing unit before being re-supplied to the temple.
The political fallout remains intense. The opposition YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has claimed vindication, accusing Chief Minister Naidu of using false "beef tallow" allegations to target the previous administration. Meanwhile, the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan have shifted their focus, arguing that the “zero milk” finding proves criminal negligence and justifies calls for greater autonomy in temple management.