Uttarakhand Government Implements Guidelines to Combat Food Contamination and Spitting Incidents

The Uttarakhand government has introduced strict measures to curb incidents of spitting in food. A fine of up to Rs 1 lakh will be imposed, and police verification of hotel and dhaba staff is now mandatory. Additionally, CCTV cameras must be installed in kitchens. These guidelines were issued following Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's strong stance against such acts, which he referred to as "thook jihad."

Recently, two individuals were apprehended in Mussoorie for allegedly spitting into fruit juice glasses before serving them to tourists. Another incident involved a viral video from Dehradun showing a cook purportedly spitting while preparing dough for rotis. Health Minister Dhan Singh Rawat emphasised that ensuring food safety and purity is a top priority during the upcoming festival season.

Police and Health Department Guidelines

Director General of Police Abhinav Kumar has instructed district police chiefs to ensure full verification of employees in establishments like hotels and dhabas. Business managers are encouraged to install CCTV cameras in their kitchens. The guidelines also suggest using local intelligence units to prevent such incidents in open spaces like kiosks and pushcarts.

The police are advised to collaborate with the Health and Food Department for random checks at hotels and dhabas. Offenders can be charged under Section 274 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita for adulteration of food and drink intended for sale, and Section 81 of the Uttarakhand Police Act for creating public nuisance or spreading false alarms.

Legal Actions and Public Awareness

If an act affects religion, ethnicity, or language, action should be taken under Section 196 1 B for promoting enmity between different groups or Section 299 of BNS for insulting religious beliefs. A public awareness campaign should be coordinated with the Health and Food Department, Municipal Corporation/District Panchayat, Municipal Councils, and local communities.

Health Secretary R Rajesh Kumar has issued a Standard Operating Procedure mandating strict action against offenders, including fines ranging from Rs 25,000 to Rs 1 lakh. These measures follow incidents in Dehradun and Mussoorie and align with the chief minister's directives.

In neighbouring Uttar Pradesh, the BJP government announced plans to introduce ordinances making food contamination by spitting or mixing human waste a cognisable and non-bailable offence. This move reflects a broader regional effort to address food safety concerns.

The Uttarakhand government's actions aim to ensure food safety during festivals by preventing anti-social activities. These measures highlight the importance placed on maintaining purity in food preparation across the state.