8,800 Food Businesses in Ladakh Face Strict Action Over Safety Violations

Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has ordered a strict crackdown on food safety violations across the Union Territory of Ladakh, warning nearly 8,800 food business operators (FBOs) of stringent legal action, including penalties of up to Rs 10 lakh and imprisonment in serious cases.

The administration said the directive was issued on Saxena’s directions to safeguard public health and ensure compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Ladakh currently has 428 FSSAI licence holders and 8,355 registered food business operators. Saxena said food safety was not merely a regulatory requirement but a fundamental responsibility towards public health. He stressed that food served to people must be safe, hygienic and meet prescribed standards, while warning of zero tolerance for violations that could put public health at risk. He also directed that enforcement remain fair, transparent and grounded in law.

Restaurants, hotels, eateries and other food businesses have been prohibited from manufacturing, storing or selling unsafe, sub-standard, misbranded, adulterated, contaminated or expired food. Operators have been instructed to prominently display valid FSSAI licences or registrations and maintain prescribed hygiene, sanitation, storage and temperature standards.

They must also prevent cross-contamination, use potable water, ensure proper waste disposal and pest control, maintain records, procure ingredients from legal sources and comply with labelling requirements. Licensed operators have additionally been directed to implement appropriate Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS) and ensure food handlers receive hygiene training. The Food Safety Department has been asked to intensify inspections, sampling and testing, with powers to seize unsafe food and suspend or cancel licences where legally warranted.

Under applicable provisions, selling non-conforming or sub-standard food can attract penalties of up to Rs 5 lakh, while misleading advertisements or false information can attract penalties of up to Rs 10 lakh. Adulteration involving harmful substances can also invite penalties of up to Rs 10 lakh.

Manufacturing, storing or selling unsafe food may result in imprisonment and fines, particularly where violations cause injury, grievous injury or death. Operating a food business without the required licence can also attract a penalty of up to Rs 10 lakh.