SC issues notice on field trials of genetically modified food

New Delhi, Aug 12 (UNI) The Supreme Court today issued notices to the Centre on an application seeking a ban on open field trials of genetically modified food crops.

These trials cause tremendous harm to human health, to animals, agriculture and environment, petitioner Aruna Rodrigues submitted before the court.

A bench comprising Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan and Justices P Sathasivam and J M Panchal directed the Union Government to file its response within two weeks.

Mr Prashant Bhusan appearing for the petitioner contended before that the government was not giving raw data to the petitioners despite an order of this court as it wants to avoid independent investigation by scientists.

He also contended that the court directions, permitting field trials only after approval of Genetically Engineered Approval Committee(GEAC), were being ignored by the government.

Additional Solicitor General Amrinder Sharan appearing for the government, denied the allegation and said the government had already put everything including data on its website.

The apex court also directed the government to comply with its orders dated April 8 and adjourned the hearing till third week of September.

UNI SC KK KN1316