'Public health can't be compromised': UP mandates masks and gloves for chefs, waiters amid Tirupati row
PTC Web Desk: In light of the ongoing Tirupati Laddu controversy, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has unveiled a series of stringent regulations aimed at enhancing food safety across the state. Under these new measures, chefs and waiters are mandated to wear masks and gloves while working, and all hotels and restaurants are required to install CCTV cameras. Additionally, food and drink establishments must clearly display the names and addresses of their operators, proprietors, and managers to improve accountability.
This initiative was announced during a high-level meeting on Tuesday, following alarming reports of food contamination incidents nationwide. "Adding human waste to food items like juice, lentils, and bread is abhorrent and unacceptable," the UP Chief Minister said, assuring that strict action will be taken against any offenders. The regulations aim to prevent such incidents from occurring in Uttar Pradesh.
As part of this initiative, an extensive inspection campaign will be launched, necessitating police verification for every staff member, whether they work at a small roadside dhaba or a high-end restaurant. Joint teams from the Food Safety and Drug Administration, the police, and local authorities will oversee these inspections to ensure adherence to the new hygiene standards.
The UP government is also considering amendments to the Food Safety and Standards Act to require eateries to prominently display vital information about their operators while maintaining rigorous hygiene practices. The installation of CCTV cameras is intended to ensure customer safety and monitor food preparation areas, with footage securely stored for potential review by the authorities.
“Public health cannot be compromised,” said Yogi Adityanath, warning that those responsible for food contamination or unhygienic practices will face severe penalties. With these sweeping changes, Uttar Pradesh aims to foster a safer and cleaner environment for both residents and visitors.
Earlier this month, a shopkeeper in Ghaziabad was assaulted by angry locals for allegedly serving fruit juices mixed with urine to customer.
- With inputs from agencies
