A petitioner told the Madras High Court that milk adulteration is a major public health issue.
The Madras High Court today directed the government to file a status report on action taken on complaints against milk adulteration. Chief Justice Indira Banerjee and Justice M Sundar gave the direction on a public interest litigation by advocate AP Suryaprakasam, who sought a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into reports of milk adulteration by private producers.
Mr Suryaprakasam told the court that children are fed milk because of its purity and nutritional value, and adulteration is dangerous for public health.
As the government was responsible to safeguard the health of citizens, it has to discharge its statutory duties against those adulterating food, Mr Suryaprakasam said in his plea.
Even the dairy development minister had said private milk suppliers added chemicals to extend shelf life of their product, he said. It was unfortunate that the authorities, despite concrete proof available with them, have allegedly not taken action against those involved in milk adulteration, he said.
The court posted the matter for further hearing on June 19.