Supreme Court Petition Filed Over Tirupati Prasadam Controversy: Key Demands for Investigation and Oversight

Mumbai – Indradev Pandey

In a significant development, a writ petition has been filed in the Supreme Court of India by Mr. Suresh Khanderao Chavhanke regarding the ongoing controversy over prasadam at the Tirumala Tirupati Temple. The petition, submitted through advocates Satyam Singh Rajput, Rajeev Ranjan, and AOR Nikhil Beniwal, calls for urgent judicial intervention to address serious allegations concerning the prasadam’s preparation.

#### Key Reliefs Sought

The petition outlines several key demands aimed at ensuring transparency and upholding the religious sentiments of devotees:

1. *Independent Investigation*: It calls for the establishment of a committee led by a retired Supreme Court judge or Chief Justice of a High Court to thoroughly investigate allegations that non-vegetarian ingredients may have been used in the prasadam.

2. *Criminal Investigation*: The petition requests that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or another independent agency be tasked with probing potential criminal conspiracy or corruption linked to these allegations.

3. *Oversight of Temple Management*: It also seeks the appointment of a retired Supreme Court judge or High Court Chief Justice to oversee the management of temples and shrines, ensuring adherence to religious customs and maintaining transparency.

#### Fundamental Rights at Stake

The petition argues that the alleged inclusion of non-vegetarian ingredients in prasadam infringes on the fundamental rights of devotees, specifically under Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution. These articles guarantee the freedom of religion and the right of religious denominations to manage their own affairs. The petition emphasizes that any deviation from traditional practices threatens the sanctity of religious observances.

#### Call for Immediate Action

Given the potential implications for millions of devotees who hold the Tirumala Tirupati Temple in high regard, the petition underscores the urgency of the matter. It calls on the Supreme Court to provide immediate attention and a swift resolution to restore faith in the temple’s administration and protect the sanctity of its religious practices.

As the legal proceedings unfold, all eyes will be on the Supreme Court to see how it responds to this pressing issue that has captured the attention of the public and devotees alike. The outcome may set significant precedents regarding the management of religious institutions and the protection of cultural practices in India.