The Kerala High Court has taken strong suo motu action against the manufacturer and the certifier of a banned chemical product, after discovering its widespread sale in defiance of a court order. The court's intervention came during proceedings related to facilities for Sabarimala pilgrims.
Court Discovers Ban Being Flouted
A bench comprising Justices V Raja Vijayaraghavan and K V Jayakumar issued the directive while reviewing a report from the Sabarimala special commissioner. The report focused on ensuring adequate amenities for devotees at various edathavalams (rest stops).
The court had previously imposed a complete ban on the sale and use of chemical or synthetic kumkum in the key pilgrimage areas of Sabarimala, Pamba, Nilakkal, and Erumeli. This ban was instituted due to serious concerns about health risks and environmental damage posed by the synthetic product.
Widespread Sale Despite Prohibition
During the hearing, counsel representing the Erumeli panchayat brought to the court's attention that the banned chemical kumkum was still being sold extensively. It was found readily available in numerous kuthaka shops across the region.
The panchayat's submission revealed crucial details about the supply chain:
- The kumkum in circulation is allegedly distributed by a firm named Ideal Enterprises, based in Kothamangalam, Ernakulam.
- Vendors selling the product were reportedly showing a certificate claimed to be issued by "Kerala Enviro Infrastructure Limited – Laboratory".
- This laboratory is situated inside the FACT-CD campus at Ambalamedu in Kochi.
HC Impleads Firms, Issues Notices
After examining the submitted details and records, the High Court bench was unequivocal in its stance. It asserted that under no circumstances can the sale of such chemical kumkum be permitted.
The court noted that, prima facie, the principal distributor appeared to be Ideal Enterprises. Consequently, the bench took the decisive step of impleading both Ideal Enterprises and Kerala Enviro Infrastructure Limited in the ongoing petition. Official notices have been issued to both entities, requiring them to respond to the court.
The matter is scheduled for further consideration by the court on Friday, where the implicated firms will be expected to provide explanations for their roles in the continued circulation of the banned product.
This suo motu action underscores the court's commitment to enforcing its environmental and public health orders, especially in the sensitive context of the Sabarimala pilgrimage, which sees millions of devotees annually.
