PIL Seeking Regulation Dismissed
On November 29, 2024, the Supreme Court dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) that sought to regulate the quality of prasad and food items distributed at religious places across India. The petition, filed by Preeti Harihara Mahapatra, argued that there should be nationwide regulations to ensure the purity and hygiene of food offered at temples and religious institutions. The bench, comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan, suggested the petitioner approach the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for the matter.
Legal Provisions and FSSAI Guidelines
The bench acknowledged existing legal provisions and FSSAI guidelines but noted that these were not enforceable as mandatory regulations. While the petitioner argued that the current guidelines were voluntary and not strictly followed, the Court pointed out that the matter could be addressed by engaging directly with the FSSAI. The bench also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent remark about the judiciary functioning within its limits and emphasized the separation of powers.
Food Safety Concerns Raised in the PIL
The petitioner highlighted several incidents of food adulteration at religious places, including adulterated prasad during events like the Shrawani Mela at Baba Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar, and substandard ghee seized at Shree Arasuri Ambaji Mata Temple in Gujarat. Citing FSSAI’s 2020-21 report, which showed a rise in food adulteration cases, the petition also criticized the lack of strict adherence to FSSAI’s voluntary BHOG (Blissful Hygienic Offering to God) guidelines.
Prayers Sought by the Petitioner
The PIL requested the Court to direct authorities to enforce regulations ensuring the purity of prasad and Bhog offerings at temples and other religious places. Additionally, it sought mandatory testing of food items before distribution and the establishment of a strict food preparation regime at religious institutions. However, the Supreme Court dismissed the petition, recommending that the petitioner pursue the matter with the relevant authorities.
