Mumbai Fruit Seller Allegedly Applies Rat Poison to Fruits, Triggers Public Outcry and Legal Action
A disturbing video from Mumbai has ignited widespread anger and deep concern among residents and online communities. The footage, captured in the Malad area, allegedly shows a fruit seller applying rat poison directly onto fruits at his stall, specifically targeting bananas and pomegranates. This shocking incident has raised serious alarms about food safety in local markets, where many families rely on daily purchases for their nutritional needs.
Viral Video Details and Public Reaction
In the now-viral clip, the man is seen holding a tube of Ratol, a common rat poison, while handling bananas. At one point, he remarks, "Kharaab kele hain," indicating the bananas are spoiled. Bystanders quickly intervene, with one man questioning him sharply, "Bachche log khaate hain yeh… yeh kyun kar rahe ho?" expressing frustration over the potential harm to children. Another individual points to a pomegranate, alleging the same substance was applied there. The video spread rapidly on social media platforms, with many users expressing distress and disbelief, highlighting how such acts undermine trust in everyday food sources.
Police Complaint and Investigation
Following the video's circulation, local resident Kunal Salunke filed a formal complaint at the Malad Police Station. He accused two fruit sellers of using rat poison on fruits intended for customers. Police responded promptly, registering a case and detaining both men for questioning. The accused, identified as Manoj Kumar Kesarwani and Bipin Kesarwani, reportedly claimed during interrogation that the poison was meant to deter rats from the fruit. However, officers emphasized that applying such hazardous chemicals to food items is extremely dangerous and unacceptable, regardless of the intent, as ingestion could lead to severe health issues.
Legal Framework and Ongoing Probe
A case has been filed under Sections 125, 274, 275, and 286 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which address offenses related to adulteration of food and endangering public safety. The investigation is currently ongoing, with authorities treating the matter with utmost seriousness due to its implications for public health. This incident underscores the critical need for stricter enforcement of food safety regulations in urban markets to prevent similar occurrences.
Broader Implications for Food Safety
This event has reignited concerns about the safety of produce sold in local markets across India. Consumers are left questioning the integrity of their daily food purchases, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and regulatory oversight. Ultimately, people seek assurance that the items they bring home are safe for their families, making incidents like this a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in the food supply chain.
