Tirupati Temple Dupatta Scam Exposed
A vigilance probe at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has uncovered a ₹55 crore procurement scam, where dupattas supplied to the temple over nearly a decade were found to be 100 percent polyester instead of the pure mulberry silk mandated in the tender. The dupattas are traditionally offered during rituals and to donors, making quality compliance essential.
Lab Tests Confirm Fabric Violation
TTD officials collected samples of the Pattu Sariga dupattas from storage units and sent them for laboratory testing. Reports confirmed that the material lacked Silk Mark certification and did not meet any of the required textile standards. This directly violated TTD’s specification, which mandates authentic mulberry silk for ceremonial use.
One Vendor Repeatedly Won Contracts
The investigation revealed that a single vendor and its associated companies secured multiple contracts between 2015 and 2025, cumulatively supplying dupattas worth ₹54.95 crore. Despite long-running irregularities, a fresh order had reportedly been approved earlier this year without detecting defects.
TTD Cancels Tender, Calls for Criminal Probe
Following the findings, TTD authorities have cancelled all ongoing contracts with the supplier and handed the case to the Andhra Pradesh Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). Officials say the probe will examine both vendor practices and possible internal lapses in procurement oversight.
Previous Concerns Add Pressure on TTD
The incident comes after earlier controversies involving ghee quality and procurement practices. The latest revelation has led to renewed calls for tighter monitoring and transparency in temple administration.
