The Andhra Pradesh High Court has taken a decisive step, ordering a comprehensive CID investigation into the alarming theft of money, including foreign currency, from the sacred offerings at the revered Lord Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirumala. This significant directive, issued on Monday, October 27, 2025, aims to uncover the full truth behind the 2023 incident.
The audacious theft occurred during the ‘Parakamani’ counting process, where devotees’ offerings are meticulously sorted. What followed was a controversial settlement of the issue by a Lok Adalat in Tirupati, a move that drew widespread condemnation. The Andhra Pradesh Sadhu Parishad, in particular, voiced strong disapproval, accusing the Lok Adalat’s Presiding Officer and its members of orchestrating a ‘fraudulent compromise.’
This fresh High Court order demands a thorough examination of how the case was handled and settled by the Lok Adalat, specifically scrutinizing any deviations from established norms. A detailed report on this matter is expected to be submitted by December 2.
Expressing serious concern over what appears to be an attempt to conceal crucial facts, the High Court emphasized the need for the investigation to be led by a CID officer of Director General rank. The probe will also delve into the potential involvement of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) officials in the entire scheme.
Furthermore, the court has mandated an assessment of the properties belonging to the prime accused, Ravi Kumar. This measure is intended to determine the extent of his involvement in the crime and to identify any other individuals who may have played a part in this sacrilegious act.