Lack of infrastructure halting implementation of FSA

SC, HC directions not followed

Srinagar: The state government has failed to ensure strict implementation of the Food Safety and Standard Act 2006 in the state which is aimed to keep a check on the sale of adulterated food in the valley.

While the act is already in force in the state from many years but due to lack of the required infrastructure the act remains confined to the papers only.

Sources said that the department over the years has failed to upgrade the infrastructure despite numerous reminders from different quarters.“The act is in force but the lack of the required

infrastructure is halting its proper implementation. Proper infrastructure is much need to ensure it throughout the valley,” he said.

Earlier in 2014, the government had constituted a Steering Committee, headed by the Chief Secretary as its Chairman for effective and smooth implementation of Food Safety and Standard Act 2006 in Jammu and Kashmir.“The government has constituted this committee to devise a strategy to keep a check on the unabated food adulteration,” sources added.

Meanwhile an official from the Drugs and Food Controller informed that the department has framed a comprehensive proposal regarding its complete implementation in the state.“Right now the act is in place and we recently framed a comprehensive proposal which after

government’s approval will ensure its complete implementation in Jammu and Kashmir,” said an Incharge officer.

She said that they held a meeting with commissioner secretary of health to discuss the up gradation of infrastructure. “Manpower is much needed and we are working to enforce the

implementation of Food Safety and Standard Act 2006 with the available infrastructure. We held a meeting and all those issues were discussed,” the Incharge officer said.

It is worth to mention that the Supreme Court of India had also ordered strict implementation of Food Safety and Standard Act 2006 in Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier in 2012, High Court has directed the state government to report to it about the steps taken with regard to implementation of Food Safety Standards Act of 2006 file compliance report on steps taken to implement Food Safety and Standard Act Food Control Organization Kashmir (FCOK) earlier has booked 422

shopkeepers for violation of Food Safety Act collecting a fine to the tune of Rs. 31 lakh in 2013 while collecting revenue of Rs. 1.25 crore for of renewal of licenses.

The former Minister for Health Taj Mohi –ud –Din had also called for vigorous awareness campaign to educate the masses about the consumption of quality and hygienic food products.