Safeguard public interest

In the holy month of Ramadhan, the market inspection drive is a timely reminder that consumer protection requires constant vigilance. In the recent joint inspection drive, the booking of eight traders and the imposition of fines, though modest in monetary terms, send a clear message that regulatory norms cannot be treated casually. The multi-departmental nature of the drive, bringing together Revenue, Police, Food Safety, Legal Metrology, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, and the Srinagar Municipal Corporation demonstrates the will of the administration towards protecting the people’s interest. Violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, poor hygiene practices, improper food handling, and the illegal use of domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes are not minor lapses. They directly affect public health and safety. However, enforcement must go beyond occasional crackdowns. Rs 5,000 in fines may serve as a warning, but unless inspections become routine and penalties proportionate to the gravity of violations, deterrence will remain limited. Food safety is not negotiable. Consumers have a right to hygienic, properly stored, accurately labelled and fairly priced products. Equally important is awareness among traders. Many small vendors operate with limited knowledge of compliance norms. The administration should complement enforcement with education, conducting workshops, distributing clear guidelines, and offering reasonable compliance timelines. At the same time, the illegal diversion of domestic LPG cylinders to commercial use highlights the need for stricter monitoring mechanisms. Such practices not only violate regulations but also pose serious safety hazards. Market regulation is about safeguarding public interest. The Bemina drive must mark the beginning of sustained, district-wide vigilance. Clean markets, transparent pricing and safe food are not privileges but basic rights of every citizen.