One-Man Panel Begins Probe into TTD Laddu Ghee Irregularities
It has been asked to submit its report within 45 days
TIRUPATI: The one-man commission constituted by the state government to examine administrative lapses and irregularities in the procurement and use of adulterated ghee for Srivari laddu prasadam at Tirumala formally began its inquiry on Tuesday.
Headed by former chief secretary Dinesh Kumar, the commission was set up after the CBI-led special investigation team (SIT) – which was constituted on the directions of the Supreme Court - submitted a confidential note to the government.
The SIT had concluded its probe into the ghee irregularities and filed its final supplementary chargesheet before the ACB court in Nellore on January 22. In the last week of January, it submitted a 14-page note recommending disciplinary action against certain officials, citing their failure to exercise due diligence.
On Tuesday morning, Dinesh Kumar and his team offered prayers at the hill temple in Tirumala and later proceeded to Tirupati, where the commission is likely to function from the Sri Padmavathi Rest House. He is assisted by retired IFS officer Munindra, retired assistant secretary to government Shiv Kumar and RTGS deputy CEO Madhuri.
N. Ravi, TTD AEO (properties cell), has been appointed liaison officer; and five staff members have been allotted by the TTD.
The government has directed the commission to examine whether there were lapses, omissions or failures in relaxation and enforcement of tender conditions, and whether decisions were taken with due diligence, recorded justification and procedural compliance. It has been asked to submit its report within 45 days.
The SIT stated that relaxation of procurement norms between 2019 and 2024 enabled supply of 68.17 lakh kg of adulterated ghee. It examined changes to tender conditions after receipt of a CFTRI report in 2022. The then TTD general manager (procurement) proposed inclusion of beta-sitosterol testing and FSSR norms, which was approved by the then executive officer.
However, within a short period, a fresh note reportedly sought removal of the FSSR conditions. The SIT did not examine in depth the reasons for this reversal.
The note recommended action against senior IAS officer Anil Kumar Singhal, former TTD additional EO A.V. Dharma Reddy and FA&CAO, O Balaji. Singhal was subsequently transferred from the post of TTD EO and was directed to report to the general administration department on February 1.
The SIT also referred to the alleged involvement of certain market committee employees, an inspector of factories, and staff of TTD warehouses and the procurement wing, who may be issued notices for further inquiry.
