Rejected "Namkeens" re-sold in local brandnames: Allahabad HC takes suo moto cognizance over alleged the sale of adulterated food

The Allahabad High Court recently took suo moto cognizance of alleged sale of adulterated namkeens (savoury snacks). The Court has directed its Registry to register a Public Interest Litigation case over the same.

A Bench comprising of Chief Justice Govind Mathur and Justice Samit Gopal, took action after a report relating to rejected "namkeens" of branded companies procured in the name of cattle feed was brought to the High Court's knowledge. The report was published by Amar Ujala Network.

The Report alleged that the rejected stock of companies like Haldiram, Bikaneri, Bikaji, Parle, Balaji and Crax, which were found to be of sub-standard quality during testing, were being acquired by adulterators during auctions in the name of cattle feed.

The report further stated that, after purchasing rejected namkeen, the adulterators used it to create a local product. The repackaged, adulterated namkeen is brought into the market as a new product in the name of local brands and local namkeen manufacturers.

On Friday, Government Advocate, Syed Ali Murtaza asked the Court for some time to avail necessary instructions from the competent Authorities of the State of Uttar Pradesh and also from the Officers concerned in all the districts of the State.

The High Court has allowed the prayer made and has listed the matter to be heard next on March 20.

[Read the Orders here]