The All India Consumer Protection Organisation (AICPO) has raised serious concerns over the rising sale of adulterated and substandard food items in Jalandhar, demanding a stringent crackdown against violators. Addressing a press conference, AICPO Punjab president Balbir Singh alleged widespread violations of food safety norms by hotels, restaurants, roadside vendors, and other food business operators, posing a grave threat to public health.
Allegations of Unhygienic Practices and Licence Violations
Singh claimed that many fast-food stalls operate in unhygienic conditions, and several vendors lack mandatory licences issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). He stated that consumers are being exposed to serious health hazards due to the sale of spurious milk, adulterated paneer, substandard edible oil, and counterfeit ghee in the market. The AICPO urged the district administration to launch special inspection drives, collect food samples for laboratory testing, and take strict action against vendors operating without valid FSSAI licences.
Upcoming Awareness Campaign
The organisation announced that it will organise a consumer awareness road march in Jalandhar on July 15 as part of its 'Shudh Ke Liye Yudh' (War for Purity) campaign. AICPO national president Hari Shankar Shukla is expected to participate in the event. Singh said the campaign aims to educate consumers about their rights and raise awareness about the dangers of food adulteration. He warned that if effective action is not taken to curb the menace, the organisation will intensify its awareness campaign across Punjab.
Demand for Stronger Enforcement
The AICPO's allegations highlight a persistent issue of food safety enforcement in the region. Despite existing regulations, inadequate enforcement has allowed adulterated products to reach consumers. Singh emphasised the need for regular inspections and strict penalties to deter violators. The organisation's call for action comes amid growing public concern over food quality and safety standards in India.
