Pulwama, February 13: Ahead of the upcoming holy month of Ramadhan and acting on the directions of Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, joint teams of Revenue, Food Safety, Legal Metrology and Consumer Affairs & Public Distribution (CAPD) today conducted extensive market checking across various areas of the district to ensure strict adherence to quality standards and safeguard consumer interests.
During the drive, several establishments dealing in food items and essential commodities were inspected for compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSS Act). During the inspection drive at Pulwama, several cases were recommended for compounding under Section 69 of the FSS Act for violations detected during the inspections. The teams stressed the importance of maintaining hygiene, proper labeling, quality standards and fair pricing practices.
Meanwhile, the teams also carried out intensive market checking in Kakapora and adjoining areas. Establishments dealing in essential commodities and grocery items were inspected to ensure protection of consumer rights and compliance with Legal Metrology provisions. During the drive, three offenders were booked for violations under relevant provisions of the Act.
Furthermore, the Legal Metrology Department has been conducting routine inspections as part of its mandated enforcement responsibilities. During the current financial year, penalties amounting to Rs 11.70 lakh have been realized from erring traders.
Besides, action was also initiated against various Food Business Operators (FBOs), particularly butchers who had failed to install mandatory glass enclosures and were displaying meat outside their shops in violation of prescribed hygiene norms.
The erring establishments were directed to ensure immediate compliance, and warned that strict legal action would follow in case of repeated violations.
The authorities urged all vendors to adhere strictly to the prescribed norms and guidelines to ensure hygiene, cleanliness and public health safety and warned them of strict action against any malpractice.