With Karwa Chauth just days away, the Hisar administration has shifted into high gear to ensure that “tradition isn’t tainted by adulteration.” The CM Flying Squad and the Health Department today conducted one of the largest food safety operations of the season.
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Targeted Sampling: The drive specifically targeted Feni and Ghevar, which are essential for the Sargi (pre-dawn meal) and breaking the fast. “We have received reports that some local units are using industrial-grade silver foil and non-permitted synthetic dyes to make these sweets look more appealing,” said Dr. Pawan Chahal, District Food Safety Officer.
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Major Recovery in Hansi:
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The Haul: At a warehouse in the Dhaula Kuan area of Hansi, teams seized 670 kg of khoya/mawa.
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The Bust: At another famous Misthan Bhandar, the team found 280 kg of mawa, 480 kg of rasgullas, and 32 kg of cake stored in unhygienic conditions.
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The “Rajasthan” Link: Investigations revealed that low-quality mawa was being brought from Bikaner and Jodhpur (Rajasthan) by private buses at cheap rates (approx. ₹280/kg) and then processed in Hisar to be sold at premium prices.
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Licensing Issues: A prominent shop, Saini Sweets, and several warehouses were found to be manufacturing sweets on a large scale without a valid license. Challans were issued on the spot to multiple establishments for violating the Food Safety Act.
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Immediate Destruction: Any stocks found visibly stale or stored in “foul-smelling water” were destroyed immediately by burying them in deep pits to prevent them from reaching the consumer’s plate.
Official Warning: The CM Flying Squad incharge, Sunaina, stated that the results from the food laboratory in Chandigarh are expected within 14 days. “Those playing with public health for festive profit will not be spared. Raids will continue daily until Diwali,” she warned.
