Did 4 batches ever reach Sabarimala? Milma ghee diversion, low-quality replacement under scanner

Thiruvananthapuram: Vigilance is investigating suspicions that a large share of the 1.77 lakh litres of ghee procured from Milma for Sabarimala during the last Mandala-Makaravilakku season never reached Sannidhanam.

While the initial focus was on allegations that four batches of ghee had been transported to Sannidhanam without mandatory food safety inspection, the investigation has now taken a new turn. Information emerging during the probe suggests that none of the four batches reached the inspection centre at Pamba.

It is suspected that the original Milma ghee may have been diverted elsewhere while in transit.

Probe focuses on possible diversion

According to information gathered during the investigation, the two batches submitted for the initial quality checks contained genuine Milma ghee samples. However, there are indications that after the test results were received, counterfeit ghee may have been supplied to Sannidhanam instead.

It is also suspected that the original Milma ghee from the remaining four batches was never transported to Sannidhanam.

There are further indications that storage facilities at Sannidhanam had already been filled with ghee brought by pilgrims during the Mandala season. As a result, those concerned were reportedly informed that additional supplies from outside were not required. Some vehicles that left Milma did not travel to Pamba but were allegedly diverted to another destination.

Sale of genuine ghee also under scrutiny

The vigilance probe is also examining whether the Milma ghee, purchased at Rs 510 per litre, was diverted during transit and replaced with lower-quality ghee sourced from Tamil Nadu. Investigators are looking into whether the original Milma ghee was subsequently sold at Rs 720 per litre.

Meanwhile, the Dairy Development Department has lodged a complaint with the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Police, seeking a detailed investigation into the alleged irregularities. The complaint states that several doubts have emerged and calls for the truth behind the suspected ghee scam to be established.