Report 

The Bombay High Court has ruled in favour of allowing criminal action against Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Private Limited (HCCB) over allegations of selling contaminated drinks.

Context of the Case

The case stems from a 2001 inspection by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Jalna district, Maharashtra. The FDA reported finding fibrous substances and cobwebs inside sealed containers of Canada Dry, a sugary fizzy beverage. The authorities confiscated 321 bottles of the drink, which had an expiration date of December 12, 2001. After testing the products, the FDA filed a complaint against HCCB under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, a law designed to ensure food safety standards in India. In 2010, the company received a notice from a magistrate’s court in Jalna. HCCB attempted to have the complaint dismissed, citing procedural issues.

Court Decision at a Higher Level

On Wednesday, Justice Y.G. Khobragade of the Aurangabad bench rejected HCCB’s request to quash the case, finding no sufficient grounds to dismiss the complaint. The court also declined to extend a temporary stay on the proceedings, which had delayed the case for over 14 years. With this ruling, the trial will proceed, bringing renewed attention to the nearly two-decade-old allegations.

Source: Business Standard