New Delhi, April 9 The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a petition seeking the constitution of a national task force or committee to monitor and ensure effective compliance with food safety enforcement measures across the country.
"We find no grounds to entertain this writ petition under Article 32 of the Constitution of India. Accordingly, it is dismissed as lacking merit," said a bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta.
The bench delivered its order on the petition, which also sought directions for 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, as well as other relevant entities.
While hearing the petition on April 6, the bench had asked the petitioner what research he had conducted before filing this public interest litigation (PIL).
The petitioner, who appeared in person, had stated that the PIL addresses an issue that affects almost everyone in the country, and it relates to unsafe, contaminated, and hazardous food.
The petition sought directions for the authorities to establish a national task force or committee, under the supervision of the Supreme Court, to monitor and ensure effective compliance with food safety enforcement measures across the country.
It named the Centre, states, Union territories, and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India as respondents in the matter.
The petition sought directions for the respondents to strengthen inspection infrastructure, testing laboratories, and enforcement personnel across all states and Union territories.
It also sought the establishment of a nationwide grievance redressal and compensation mechanism for victims of food safety violations.
