Allegation of Sale of Adulterated Goods in Khetrajpur

Sambalpur: The sale of adulterated food items like colored pulses, spices, ghee, flour, chili, and pepper is not uncommon. There are allegations of such adulteration in some warehouses in Western Odisha and Sambalpur’s main market area of Khetrajpur and in the suburbs of the city. It is alleged that local businessmen are indulging in this practice for more profit. Therefore, there is a general demand for the administration to take action.

Nowadays, with the increased prices of pulses and other commodities, low-quality materials are allegedly being sold as dyed products at high prices. When one looks at the pulses found in the market and shops, there is doubt. By coloring them, they are given the appearance of high-quality pulses. Due to the rise in pulse prices, unscrupulous traders are allegedly mixing cheap pulses with expensive ones and selling them. It is alleged that a few pulse traders of Khetrajpur were involved in such illegal transactions.

According to information, the administration has a special team to prevent food adulteration. There are rules to take strict action against traders who indulge in adulteration. A crackdown has been imposed on the sale of low-quality pulses. Consuming such adulterated pulses carries the risk of paralysis and various diseases. Even though such malpractice has been going on for years, no complete ban has been put on this business.

While the price of high-quality pulses has been rising, pulse adulteration has created a chaotic situation. Traders are bringing and selling pulses from the neighboring states of Chhattisgarh and Bihar. Chickpeas are abundantly harvested in hilly and non-irrigated areas. By bringing and mixing these pulses, they are now earning 50 to 60 rupees per kg. Chickpeas are priced at Rs 90 to 100 per kg, while adulterated pulses mixed with chickpeas are being sold at 165 to 170 rupees per kg.

According to a mall owner, the prices of pulses have increased for about a week. The main trader has directly increased the price by 9 rupees per kg. They have 3 types of high-quality pulses. Mixing does not happen at their level. If there is a mix, it is done before the goods arrive at their mall or small shop. It is difficult for the average consumer to recognize it. He said that it is not possible for them to know.

On the other hand, there was a raid earlier in Khetrajpur over the mixing of various edible oils, soaps, spices, and flour. A case has also been filed. Now, the demand is to expand the crackdown again. Otherwise, there is a danger to the life of the customer.