MILK ADULTERATION IN DELHI- NCR: A MYTH OR REALITY: AN ANALYSIS OF EXISITING LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORKS IN CURBING MILK ADULTERATION

Abstract [English]

Milk has a history of being advertised as a superfood and an essential in an average Indian’s day. Over the years, the quality of milk is degrading due to mixing of any substance that is inferior in quality but promises better profits. This process is adulteration of the milk and has become quite common in India. In actuality, within the realm of food products, milk stands out as particularly susceptible to adulteration, hence posing significant health risks to consumers. Though the matters concerning the 'right to health' is immensely important India does not recognise it as a Fundamental Right. However, several judicial interpretations have considered it a part of the Article 21, Right to Life. This confers an important status to the matter to public health. Thus, the judicial interpretation serves as a supplementary component to the 'Right to Life' and the same is also considered to be of extreme importance under the Indian Constitution’s (IC) Part IV . Its inclusion in Article 21 necessitates the need to curb the menace of adulteration in food products and in specific, in the milk which is undoubtedly an important source of nourishment. Thus, this research looks to analyse existing laws and policies providing for requisite standards to be maintained with respect to milk quality and the role of judiciary in protecting the right to health concerning adulterated supply of milk. There are numerous judgements wherein courts have expressed significant concern on the worrisome prevalence of such practices inside the nation and have advocated for the implementation of rigorous penalties for this transgression. Incorporating both doctrinal and an empirical component to the research, the authors via this research try to map the success of government (govt.) and other stakeholders in ensuring availability of safe milk in Delhi -NCR while emphasising on the dire need of empowering the citizens through legal sensitisation and advocating awareness in this regard. Also, this research put forth various suggestions to strengthen legal and regulatory frameworks to combat the menace of milk adulteration effectively.