Enforcement Directorate Raids A.R. Dairy Food in Adulterated Ghee Case

The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) carried out extensive searches at the premises of A.R. Dairy Food and the residence of its Managing Director, Raju Rajasekaran, in Dindigul. These searches are part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged supply of adulterated ghee to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The operation began at 8 a.m. and lasted over 10 hours.

The ED's actions are connected to an FIR filed against A.R. Dairy Food and several other entities. Allegations include criminal breach of trust and cheating, reportedly involving a conspiracy with some officials from TTD. The accused are said to have caused a significant financial loss to TTD by delivering adulterated ghee.

The investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act has revealed that the illicit profits from these activities were invested in immovable properties. This was allegedly achieved through a complex network of interconnected legal entities and business concerns, aiming to disguise the origin of these funds.

The ED's operation was not limited to Dindigul; searches were conducted at a total of 15 locations across India. According to a press release by the ED, further investigation is currently underway to uncover more details about the financial transactions and those involved in the conspiracy.

This case highlights the broader issue of food adulteration and its implications on religious institutions like TTD, which rely on suppliers for ingredients used in rituals and offerings.