By Sunil Sonker
Mussoorie, 4 Sep: Serious questions have once again been raised about the government ration distribution system in Uttarakhand. Complaints of sand and other adulteration in the salt being distributed at ration shops in many districts of the state have surfaced. A video that went viral on social media has created a stir across the state. Sand and other particles can be clearly seen in this ration.
With the matter coming to light, the Uttarakhand government has come into action and the salt present in all the ration shops of Uttarakhand is being tested.
A special campaign was carried out in Mussoorie under the leadership of SDM Kumkum Joshi, today, under the instructions of the District Magistrate. Under this campaign, random checking was done at all the ration shops of Mussoorie. Samples of salt available in the shops were taken in collaboration with the officials of the Food Safety Department, which have been sent to the laboratory for testing. The salt is being distributed under government branding, on which pictures of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, and Cabinet Minister Rekha Arya are printed. Now the question arises whether is it a conspiracy to complain of adulteration in the brand?
In the viral video, some consumers clearly stated on camera that the salt they have received has so much sand and dust that it is difficult to even cook food. This video spread rapidly on social media.
SDM Kumkum Joshi said that inspection was conducted at all ration shops in Mussoorie. Salt samples have been sent to the lab for testing. Strict action will be taken as per the rules after the report comes in. Adulterated goods will not be given to the public. Experts believe that such adulteration is not only a big danger to the health of the public, but it also points to large-scale corruption in the supply chain. Is this some organised adulteration racket serving ration mixed with sand in salt?
