Touseef Wani
Ganderbal, July 25: Residents of Lar in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district have sought an immediate investigation into the alleged distribution of poor-quality wheat flour through government sale centres, claiming the flour is unsuitable for consumption and poses a potential health risk.
Several consumers alleged that the atta supplied in recent days was of inferior quality and urged the authorities to collect samples for laboratory testing to determine whether it meets prescribed food safety standards.
Locals also demanded a thorough inquiry into the procurement and distribution process, calling for accountability if negligence is established.
They further urged the government to take strict action against the supplier, including blacklisting the flour mill if the allegations are substantiated.
“We rely on government sale centres for our daily food needs. The flour being distributed is of very poor quality. Authorities should immediately inspect the stock and ensure safe food reaches consumers,” a local resident said.
Responding to the complaints, Assistant Director, Mills, Bilal Ahmad told Kashmir Despatch the issue had already been brought to his attention and had been taken up with higher authorities.
“The matter is already under my notice. I have written to the Director regarding the issue, and I hope it will be resolved in the coming days,” he said.
The complaints have raised concerns among residents about quality control and monitoring of food grains distributed through government channels.
Consumers have urged the administration to complete the inquiry at the earliest and make its findings public.
Officials have acknowledged receiving the complaints. However, the allegations remain unverified, and the outcome of the official inquiry is awaited.
