With absence of ‘direct evidence’, here’s where Tirumala ghee row stands

Synopsis : The CBI team probing the alleged adulteration of ghee used in preparing the sacred Tirumala Laddu prasadam invoked corruption-related provisions to widen the scope of the investigation. Investigators are examining whether the ghee was adulterated before delivery and, if so, who was responsible.

The CBI-led probe into the alleged adulteration of ghee used in preparing the sacred Tirumala Laddu prasadam at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple has reached an advanced stage.

The CBI team has invoked corruption-related provisions to widen the scope of the investigation. With the focus now on graft, the case has been transferred to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Court in Tirupati.

According to sources, adulteration constitutes a minor offence under the law—punishable with a fine or