Introduction
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the trust managing India’s richest and most sacred temple, is again in the spotlight due to the shocking revelation of the ₹54 crore silk dupatta scam. For nearly a decade, polyester dupattas were allegedly supplied to TTD while being billed at the cost of pure silk. This scam has raised serious concerns about transparency, procurement practices, and the trust of millions of devotees.
What Is the ₹54 Crore Silk Dupatta Scam?
According to internal investigations, suppliers allegedly delivered polyester dupattas but falsely claimed them to be pure silk. These dupattas were used during rituals and gifted to VIP devotees. Laboratory tests later confirmed that the material was synthetic, leading to the exposure of a decade-long fraud.
- Fake silk sold as pure silk
- Scam continued for over 10 years
- Loss estimated at ₹54 crore
- Dupattas were given to VIP devotees during rituals
How the Scam Was Detected
Suspicion arose when officials noticed inconsistencies in texture and material quality. Samples were sent for lab testing, which revealed that the dupattas were made of polyester, not silk. Following this, TTD immediately suspended the vendors and referred the case to the Andhra Pradesh Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).
Why This Scam Is Serious
This is not just a financial scam but also a breach of devotion and sentiment. The dupattas play a significant role in temple rituals and are considered sacred. Misrepresentation of such items damages public trust in the temple administration.
- Sacred items compromised
- Financial mismanagement of temple funds
- Violation of devotees\’ trust
- Lack of strict quality checks
TTD\’s Official Response
TTD acted promptly after discovering the scam. They initiated an internal audit, blacklisted involved suppliers, and strengthened procurement guidelines. They are now fully cooperating with the Anti-Corruption Bureau investigation.
- Full internal audit ordered
- Case handed to ACB
- Blacklisting of suppliers
- Improved quality control measures
Past Controversies Connected to TTD
This incident adds to earlier controversies involving TTD, such as:
- Ghee adulteration scam in laddu preparation
- Parakamani (donation counting) theft case
- Fake ticket booking frauds affecting devotees
Impact on Devotees
Millions of devotees visit Tirumala each year and place immense trust in the temple administration. Such scams have emotional and spiritual consequences, making transparency even more critical. While devotees are disappointed, many appreciate TTD\’s rapid and transparent response.
What Happens Next?
The ACB investigation will examine:
- Vendor contracts from the past decade
- Possible involvement of TTD officials
- Failures in quality control
- Financial audit of procurement records
Conclusion
The ₹54 crore silk dupatta scam highlights major lapses in procurement and oversight at TTD. As investigations continue, devotees hope for accountability, transparency, and reforms to prevent future scandals. This incident serves as a reminder that even the most trusted institutions must maintain strict checks and balances.