Supreme Court Advocates for Childcare and Feeding Rooms in Public Spaces

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Supreme Court Advocates for Childcare and Feeding Rooms in Public Spaces The Supreme Court of India has suggested that the Union Government develop a comprehensive policy addressing the construction of feeding rooms and childcare facilities  in public places. This move aims to ensure that nursing mothers and their children can access basic amenities in a dignified and private manner, reinforcing their fundamental rights under the Indian Constitution. SC Encourages Policy Formulation A bench comprising Justice BV Nagarathna  and Justice N Kotiswar Singh  highlighted the absence of a structured framework to address this pressing issue. The court advised the Centre to propose a policy that could then be implemented across the states, scheduling the next hearing for December 10, 2024.   The apex court emphasized that before issuing formal directions, it was crucial to understand the Centre’s perspective on implementing the petitioner’s demand for childcare and feedi...
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Supreme Court Issues Notice to Centre and FSSAI on Overuse of Pesticides in Food

Supreme Court Issues Notice to Centre and FSSAI on Overuse of Pesticides in Food



The Supreme Court of India has sought a response from the Centre and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regarding a plea raising concerns about the overuse of pesticides and other chemical insecticides in food crops and food items. This significant move comes as the country grapples with increasing health issues linked to the consumption of pesticide-laden foods.


Bench and Ministries Involved


A bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, along with Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, issued notices to several key ministries:

  • - Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
  • - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
  • - Ministry of Agriculture
  • - FSSAI


The Petition and Its Claims


The petition, filed by environmentalist and lawyer Akash Vashishtha, highlights the alarming health risks associated with the widespread use of pesticides and chemical insecticides on food crops. Vashishtha's plea emphasizes that these practices are the primary causes of various cancers and other fatal ailments in India.


Specific Concerns Raised


The petition outlines several critical concerns:

1. Use/Overuse of Pesticides: The excessive use of pesticides and insecticides on food crops is leading to severe health risks for consumers.

2. Artificial Colouring, Coating, and Waxing: Practices such as artificial coloring and waxing of pulses, food grains, and other food items contribute to health hazards.

3. High Incidence of Fatal Ailments: The petition states that the consumption of foods laced with these chemicals is leading to an increasing number of deaths due to cancer and other serious diseases.


Relevant Laws and Regulatory Framework


Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006


The primary legislation governing food safety in India is the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. This act consolidates various food-related laws and establishes the FSSAI to regulate the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food to ensure safe and wholesome food for consumers.


- Section 18: This section outlines the general principles of food safety, including the need to protect consumer interests and prevent misleading practices.

- Section 19: Deals with the prohibition and restriction of substances in food that may be harmful to health.

- Section 20: Empower the government to prohibit or regulate the use of insecticides and pesticides on food crops.


Insecticides Act, 1968


This act regulates the import, manufacture, sale, transport, distribution, and use of insecticides to prevent risk to humans and animals.


- Section 3: Provides definitions and classifications of insecticides.

- Section 9: Mandates the registration of insecticides to ensure they meet safety standards.

- Section 27: Empower the central government to ban or restrict the use of certain insecticides if they pose a significant health risk.


Impact and Implications


The Supreme Court's notice highlights the urgent need to address the rampant use of harmful chemicals in agriculture. If the court rules in favor of stricter regulations, it could lead to significant changes in agricultural practices and food safety standards in India.


Steps Forward


As the case proceeds, the response from the Centre and FSSAI will be crucial in determining the next steps. The ministries involved will need to provide detailed reports on current practices, regulations in place, and the measures being taken to mitigate health risks associated with pesticide use.


Conclusion


The Supreme Court's intervention brings hope for improved food safety standards in India. Ensuring that agricultural practices do not compromise public health is essential for safeguarding the well-being of the population. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for stricter regulation and enforcement of food safety standards, ultimately leading to healthier food consumption practices in the country.

Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India

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