Key Update

Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar on Wednesday issued a stern warning against food adulteration, stating that authorities will treat such offences on par with an attempt to murder. He announced the deployment of special joint task force teams to identify and dismantle adulteration networks operating across the city.

Special SOP to Strengthen Enforcement

Chairing a high-level preparatory meeting with officials from the Food Safety Department at the TGICCC in Banjara Hills, Sajjanar emphasised that food adulteration poses a direct threat to public health and cannot be treated as a minor violation. To ensure strict and legally sound action, he directed officials to frame a Special Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) covering inspections, sample collection, seizures, and arrests.

Focus Shifts Beyond Street Vendors

The commissioner made it clear that enforcement efforts would not remain limited to roadside vendors. Instead, joint teams would focus on manufacturing units and supply chains, where adulteration often originates. He warned traders to strictly comply with quality and safety standards, adding that violations would invite immediate action.

Repeat Offenders Face Licence Cancellation and PD Act

Reinforcing the zero-tolerance approach, Sajjanar said repeat offenders would face permanent cancellation of their business licences. He also stated that the police would not hesitate to invoke the Preventive Detention (PD) Act against organised counterfeiting and adulteration networks that endanger public health.

Public Participation Through WhatsApp Helpline

To involve citizens in the crackdown, the city police will soon launch a dedicated WhatsApp number and a toll-free helpline to report suspected food adulteration. The commissioner assured the public that authorities would keep the identity of informants strictly confidential.

Senior Officials Review Field Challenges

Senior police officers, including Additional Commissioner of Police (Crimes) Srinivasulu, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Joel Davis, and several Deputy Commissioners of Police, attended the meeting. From the food safety wing, IPM Director Dr Shivalila, Assistant Food Controllers Bal Raju and Ananda Rao, and Food Inspector Jagga Reddy participated and shared insights on operational challenges faced during field inspections.

Source: Deccan Chronicle