NI Bureau
New Delhi, October 1, 2024
Dr. K. A. Paul, a globally recognized peace ambassador, has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court to protect the revered Laddu Prasadam from Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). His petition calls for a CBI investigation into the alleged decline in quality and hygiene of this sacred offering, which is deeply significant to millions of devotees.
Dr. Paul’s concerns stem from reports of political interference, corruption in procurement, and mismanagement that he believes are undermining the sanctity of the prasadam. “This is not just about a sweet; it’s about faith and tradition,” he emphasizes, highlighting that people of all religions—Hindus, Christians, Muslims—are affected by the chaos fueled by political figures like Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.
Key Issues Raised:
- Quality Concerns: Allegations of substandard ingredients, including adulterated ghee, have sparked outrage among devotees, raising questions about the prasadam’s purity.
- Political Interference: The petition outlines how politically connected individuals allegedly benefit from inflated contracts, further degrading the quality of offerings.
- Communal Tensions: Dr. Paul also addresses the growing communal discord, citing violations of religious rights as guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.
- Demand for CBI Investigation: He is urging the court for an impartial investigation into these serious allegations.
A Vision for a Sacred Space
In a bold proposal, Dr. Paul suggests granting the Tirupati-Tirumala region Union Territory status or recognizing it as a sovereign religious state, akin to Vatican City, to protect its sanctity from political influences.
As the Supreme Court prepares to hear the case, Dr. Paul remains hopeful for a resolution that restores faith in the Laddu Prasadam and preserves its sanctity for generations to come. “This is a matter of deep personal significance for many devotees,” he states, advocating for a future where the sacred traditions are free from corruption and political manipulation.
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