Andhra ACB Arrests TTD Deputy Executive Officer in Disproportionate Assets Case

The Andhra Pradesh Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Deputy Executive Officer Mendu Lokanatham in a disproportionate assets case following searches at several locations linked to him and his family members. The ACB conducted searches at Lokanatham’s residence, office and other properties in Tirupati and surrounding areas as part of its investigation. During the searches, officials reportedly recovered around 2 kg of gold, 6.5 kg of silver and ₹12.5 lakh in cash, besides documents relating to properties and fixed deposits.

According to the investigating agency, the assets identified during the operation have been provisionally valued at around ₹5 crore. The ACB is examining whether these assets can be explained through Lokanatham’s known sources of income. Property documents and financial records recovered during the searches are also being scrutinised as part of the investigation.

The case is reportedly linked to information that emerged during the Central Bureau of Investigation’s probe into alleged irregularities involving the supply of ghee used in the preparation of Tirumala Laddu prasadam. Information concerning the assets of certain TTD officials was reportedly shared with the state ACB for further investigation.

The ACB registered a disproportionate assets case against Lokanatham under the relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Following the searches, he was taken into custody and subsequently produced before the court for further proceedings. Lokanatham has had a long association with the TTD. He joined the temple administration as a junior assistant in 1989 and subsequently served in several positions before being promoted to Deputy Executive Officer.

The ACB investigation is continuing, with officials examining property records, bank transactions, income details and other documents to determine the source of the assets under scrutiny. The allegations remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings, and guilt has not been established by a court.

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