Activists call for action after adulterated ghee factory bust in Surat

Surat : Social activists in Olpad taluka, Surat district, have called for a thorough investigation into all industrial and food production units operating in Masma village after a factory manufacturing adulterated ghee was busted on January 11. In a joint operation by the Food and Drugs Department and the State Monitoring Cell (SMC), approximately 25 tonnes of adulterated ghee worth ₹69 lakh and raw materials worth ₹1 crore were seized.

The factory owners, Rakesh and Bhupesh Bharatiya, residents of Vaishnavdevi Sky, Jahangirabad in Surat, were arrested. Activists claim the incident is indicative of widespread illegal activities in the area, which have repeatedly compromised public health.

Activists Highlight Negligence

Yogendra Patel, a prominent social activist, has written to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, alleging that local officials in Olpad taluka have failed to address the issue despite prior complaints. Patel stated that small units in Masma village are producing adulterated food items, including ghee, oil, and pan masala, posing significant health risks.

“A complaint was submitted to the Olpad Mamlatdar and Taluka Development Officer (TDO) on April 16, 2024, urging an investigation into the production processes of these units. Despite this, illegal activities continue unabated,” Patel noted in his letter.

He further alleged that the lack of action by local administrative officials and taluka panchayat office bearers raises suspicions about their complicity. “Without local officials turning a blind eye, such large-scale production of adulterated food items would not be possible,” Patel added.

Tragic Incident Sparks Outrage

The recent raid also brought to light a tragic incident involving the death of a 17-year-old worker, Himesh Rathod, from the Halpati community. Rathod reportedly died of electrocution while working in the same factory. Activists argue that the local administration’s failure to act has allowed dangerous working conditions to persist in the area.

“The repeated emergence of such factories in Masma village is not just negligence but a blatant disregard for human life and public health,” Patel remarked.

Health and Reputation at Stake

The issue highlights a serious conflict between the government’s public health initiatives and the unchecked criminal activities in Masma village. Activists argue that while the state government prioritizes citizen welfare, these illegal factories are jeopardizing lives and tarnishing the administration’s reputation.

“It is deeply concerning that despite written representations and repeated instances of food adulteration, no significant action has been taken. The government must hold local officials accountable for their inaction,” Patel emphasized.

The activists have demanded a comprehensive inspection of all units in Masma village and strict action against those involved in producing adulterated food. Patel concluded, “The safety and well-being of citizens should be the government’s top priority. This issue requires immediate and decisive action to prevent further harm and restore public trust.”