Forum blames laxity in implementation of Food Safety Act for death of child who consumed soft drink

The Consumer Federation Tamil Nadu (CONFET) has appealed to Chief Minister Jayalalithaa to arrange suitable compensation, as provided for under the Food Safety and Standards Act, to the family of A. Abirami (8) of Seplanatham near Neyveli, who died recently after consuming bottled soft drink.

In a representation addressed to the Chief Minister, the consumer activist noted that the death should serve as an eye-opener to the authorities about the consequences of laxity in implementing the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

The victim’s three siblings — A. Lalitha (9), A.Kausalya (7) and A.Paramasivam (5) — took ill, necessitating their hospitalisation. Mr. Nizamudeen said that even though the Act was passed in 2006, the rules were framed by the Centre only in 2011. As per Section 66 of the Act, if death is caused by consuming any adulterated or harmful foodstuff, a compensation of Rs. 5 lakh should be given to the victim’s family, and if the health of any individual is affected by any consumable items the affected person should be given a compensation ranging from Rs. 1 to Rs. 3 lakh.

Soon after such adverse reports come to the notice of the officials, they should arrange for giving an interim relief within 30 days of the incident. In the Seplanatham case, the family of the affected children should be given appropriate compensation as stated in the Act. Mr. Nizamudeen further stated that under the Act those selling the substandard products, stockists and distributors would be liable to pay a penalty of up to Rs. 5 lakh. Manufacturing spurious products under leading labels or brands would attract a penalty of Rs. 3 lakh.

In case of death caused by the unsafe products the sellers, manufacturers and stockists would be held collectively responsible and they might face jail term, ranging from six months to seven years, and if there is severe collateral damage life sentence could be given to those responsible for the incident. Mr. Nizamudeen pointed out that Tamil Nadu stood in the forefront in the country in terms of appointing Food Safety Officers in 32 districts. At times they carry out surprise raids on shops and establishments and if any harmful materials are found they seize and destroy the stocks.

But owing to the pressure exerted by traders and dealers they let go those connected with the supply chain of a particular harmful product. Mr. Nizamudeen said that only when the provisions of the Act are strictly implemented the interests of consumers could be safeguarded and unpleasant happenings as in Seplanatham could be prevented.”