TTD faces fresh scandal as inquiry reveals ₹55-crore polyester dupatta scam

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the country’s wealthiest and most visited temple trust, is confronting another major controversy after an internal vigilance probe found that it may have been defrauded of more than ₹55 crore over the past decade through the purchase of dupattas falsely billed as pure silk.

The findings add to a growing list of scandals that have recently rattled the institution, including allegations of adulterated ghee in its iconic laddu prasadam and a high-profile hundi money-counting theft case.

Decade-long scam involving ceremonial dupattas

According to officials briefed on the inquiry, suppliers contracted by TTD repeatedly delivered dupattas made of polyester while invoicing them as Pattu Sariga—a ceremonial stole traditionally woven from pure mulberry silk. These dupattas are an important part of rituals at the Tirumala temple and are handed to donors, Veda Aseervachanam recipients and dignitaries during ceremonies at the Ranganayakula Mandapam.

TTD’s procurement rules mandate strict quality parameters: every dupatta must be made of 100% mulberry silk, include a certified Silk Mark hologram, and feature zari borders that pass laboratory testing. The vigilance team found systematic deviations from these standards, raising questions about how the scam escaped scrutiny for so long.

Questions over oversight and internal controls

Early assessments suggest that lapses occurred at multiple levels—from procurement committees to quality-control checks and vendor certification. A senior official familiar with the inquiry said the pattern points to “a coordinated manipulation of purchase processes” and not just isolated errors.

The revelations could lead to a sweeping audit of past procurement decisions and disciplinary action against staff members suspected of collusion or negligence. TTD administration is expected to issue a detailed statement once the final report is submitted.

Broader implications for public trust

The scam comes at a time when TTD is already under scrutiny for maintaining transparency and protecting the sanctity of temple rituals. Devotees and community leaders have expressed concern that repeated procurement controversies erode faith in the institution’s stewardship of offerings and ritual items.

Governance experts say the case underlines the need for stronger procurement oversight, independent third-party testing for all ritual materials, and digital tracking systems to prevent supply-chain manipulation.