Punjab State and Chandigarh (UT) Human Rights Commission on Friday took suo-motu cognizance of a viral video showing a disturbing practice at the main Sabzi Mandi in Chandigarh’s Sector-26, where a fruit cart vendor was allegedly caught washing fruits with detergent water before selling them to consumers.
The video, widely circulated on social media under the title “Shocking Video of Main Sabzi Mandi Sector-26, Chandigarhâ€, has triggered widespread public concern over food safety and hygiene standards in one of the city’s busiest vegetable and fruit markets.
According to the clip, the vendor was seen washing seasonal fruits like apricots using water mixed with detergent — a method likely adopted to give fruits a cleaner and shinier appearance. However, this method is extremely hazardous, potentially exposing consumers to harmful chemicals. Shockingly, when confronted by a bystander, the vendor allegedly casually confessed that the use of detergent is common practice among several fruit sellers in the area.
Taking serious note of the health implications involved, the Commission has directed that urgent action be initiated and the matter be placed before the Director, Health Services, UT Chandigarh; Commissioner, Food Safety, UT Chandigarh; and Secretary, Mandi Board, UT Chandigarh.
The officials have been instructed to personally investigate the matter and submit a detailed report before the Commission via responsible senior officers. The next hearing has been scheduled for June 27, 2025, and copies of the order, along with the video evidence, have been dispatched through email and post for strict compliance.
The Commission’s statement underscored the critical importance of safe food practices, noting that food adulteration is a recognized global public health crisis. It warned that consumption of contaminated or chemically-treated fruits and vegetables can result in serious health conditions, including kidney failure, liver disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, and even cancer.
“Food is essential for the sustenance of life, and citizens rely heavily on fruits, vegetables, milk, and other perishable items for daily nutrition. It is imperative that we ensure these essentials are free from harmful chemicals and prepared in hygienic conditions,†said Justice Sant Parkash in the Commission's official directive.
The state’s Human Rights Commission has reiterated its unwavering commitment to uphold the right to safe and healthy food under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. It has also urged the administration to conduct thorough inspections of all vendors in Sector-26 mandi and other markets across the city to ensure such dangerous practices are completely eradicated.
Public health experts have welcomed the Commission’s intervention, stating that such enforcement is necessary to deter negligent practices and to educate street vendors about food safety norms.
