The Allahabad High Court, in a recent session, has summoned a key official from Uttar Pradesh’s food safety department to account for the ongoing availability of banned “Chinese garlic” in markets. During a hearing conducted by the Lucknow bench, the court also questioned the Central government’s mechanisms for halting the import and distribution of such prohibited items.
Justices Rajan Roy and O P Shukla issued these directives while considering a public interest litigation (PIL) initiated by lawyer Motilal Yadav. The PIL highlights concerns over the health risks associated with “Chinese garlic,” which is officially banned in India. Despite this prohibition, the product continues to be sold openly, as evidenced by samples presented in court by the petitioner.
The court’s inquiry extends to both state and central levels, seeking clarity on how this banned item still permeates Indian markets and what steps are being planned to eliminate its entry and distribution.
