Keep gods away from politics, says SC on Tirupati laddu row

The Supreme Court on Monday emphasized that individuals holding constitutional positions are expected to keep religious matters separate from politics. "When you hold constitutional office, it is expected that you would...we expect Gods to be kept away from polity," Justice BR Gavai said while responding to senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, who appeared for the Andhra Pradesh government.

The observation was made while hearing petitions related to the alleged adulteration of Tirupati temple laddus. Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan questioned the Andhra Pradesh government and the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) about public statements made before the outcome of a probe.

The court raised concerns over the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister's public comments on the issue before an FIR was filed or a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted. The bench questioned the need to address the press while an investigation was still pending. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing the Andhra government, argued that the petitions were politically motivated.

The court also asked for evidence to prove that adulterated ghee was used in the preparation of the laddus. Advocate Siddharth Luthra, representing the Tirupati Temple, informed the court that an investigation was ongoing, but the bench stressed the importance of handling the matter with caution and respect for religious sentiments.

The Solicitor General was asked to consult the Centre on the need for a central investigation, with the case set for further hearing on Thursday.