New Delhi, April 6 Besides making arguments, what research have you conducted before filing this public interest litigation, the Supreme Court asked a petitioner who sought the constitution of a national task force or committee to monitor and ensure effective compliance with food safety enforcement measures.
The apex court reserved its order on the public interest litigation (PIL) which sought directions to authorities to undertake a nationwide and time-bound food safety audit and inspection drive covering food manufacturing and processing units, restaurants and commercial food establishments, and others.
"Besides making arguments, what is the basis of your claim and what research have you conducted before filing this petition," a bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta asked the petitioner who was appearing in person.
The petitioner said the PIL raises an issue affecting almost everyone in the country and it relates to unsafe, contaminated, and hazardous food.
"This is affecting almost every citizen," the petitioner said.
While reserving its order, the bench said it will pass a detailed order.
The plea has sought directions to the authorities to constitute a national task force/committee under the supervision of the apex court to monitor and ensure effective compliance with food safety enforcement measures across the country.
It has made the Centre, states, Union Territories and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India as respondents in the matter.
The plea sought directions to the respondents to strengthen inspection infrastructure, testing laboratories, and enforcement personnel across all states and UTs.
It also sought the establishment of a nationwide grievance redressal and compensation mechanism for victims of food safety violations.