TDB denies role in alleged Sabarimala ghee irregularity, says no outside procurement this season

The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has announced it will cease purchasing ghee from external suppliers for the Sabarimala temple, according to TDB Commissioner K. Jayakumar. The decision was made approximately two weeks ago during preparations for the annual list of required items for the temple. The board will now rely solely on ghee donated by devotees for its operations. This change does not relate to the recent controversy surrounding the procurement of Milma ghee, which has prompted a government investigation. Jayakumar explained that the temple regularly receives large quantities of ghee, which serves multiple purposes including the preparation of the Aravana ritual and the lighting of lamps. He emphasized that the shift to using donated ghee was part of a broader effort to manage resources more efficiently. The TDB had previously sourced ghee externally, but this policy has now changed. The decision comes amid heightened scrutiny over the handling of Milma ghee, a type of clarified butter used in religious rituals. On Wednesday, Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan issued an order directing the Secretary (Devaswoms) to conduct an urgent inquiry into allegations of irregularities in the procurement and transportation of Milma ghee to Sabarimala. The investigation is to be carried out in collaboration with the TDB, and the Secretary is tasked with submitting a comprehensive report promptly. The minister's directive highlights the importance of ensuring the quality and integrity of materials used in the temple, particularly given their spiritual significance. The issue has raised concerns about transparency and accountability, as well as the potential impact on public trust in the temple’s administrative processes. The probe aims to address these concerns and restore confidence in the management of essential supplies. The TDB, responsible for managing the affairs of several temples in Kerala, including Sabarimala, has faced increasing pressure to improve governance and transparency. The shift away from external procurement reflects a growing emphasis on self-sufficiency and community involvement. Devotees have long contributed to the temple’s needs through donations, and this move aligns with efforts to harness local support more effectively. The situation underscores the delicate balance between tradition and modern administrative practices within religious institutions. While the use of donated ghee is not new, the formal decision to discontinue external purchases marks a notable step toward greater autonomy. However, the ongoing investigation into Milma ghee procurement suggests that challenges remain in ensuring compliance with standards and maintaining public confidence. As the probe unfolds, stakeholders are likely to await further developments. The outcome could influence future policies regarding resource management and supplier oversight. For now, the focus remains on addressing the current issues while adhering to the principles of transparency and accountability that underpin the temple’s operations.