Hyderabad Kirana Merchants to Act Against Adulteration, Ask Police Not to Target Genuine Traders

In the wake of recent inspections by the Hyderabad Food Adulteration Surveillance Team (H-FAST), the Hyderabad Kirana Merchants Association (THKMA) has taken a firm stance against food adulteration. In an emergency general body meeting, the association decided that any member found guilty of food adulteration or other unethical practices will be expelled from the body, and their details will be reported to H-FAST for necessary action.

H-FAST, comprising police and food safety officials, has been conducting surprise checks across the city. Products suspected of being adulterated or misbranded were seized from several shops, prompting the merchants' body to respond with clear guidelines for its members.

The meeting was convened to review the ongoing food safety enforcement drives. The association noted that cases of alleged food adulteration and other malpractices had come to light in areas such as Mailardevpally, Katedan, Barkas, and Balapur. These observations prompted the leadership to issue clear directives to its members.

While supporting the authorities' efforts, THKMA urged the police and enforcement agencies not to target genuine traders during inspections. It specifically mentioned the traders in Begum Bazar and members of the association, requesting that compliance be assessed fairly. The association believes that honest merchants should not be harassed or subjected to suspicion without valid reason.

Association president Domadar Das Vijaywargiya and the secretary reiterated that the body is firmly against food adulteration, polishing, artificial colouring, misbranding, and any other illegal food business practices. They asserted that the association would neither support nor shield anyone found involved in such activities. Instead, offenders will be subject to stringent disciplinary action, including termination of membership, and their details will be forwarded to H-FAST. The association said the decision was unanimous and reflects the collective will of the trading community.

The association also appealed to all its members to strictly comply with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the regulations laid down by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). It emphasised the need to maintain quality, hygiene, and transparency in business operations, which are essential for consumer trust and public health. This, they said, would help businesses avoid legal consequences while maintaining consumer confidence.

THKMA expressed its appreciation to H-FAST, FSSAI, and the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) food safety officials for their efforts in spreading awareness about food safety. The association assured the authorities of its full cooperation in promoting ethical and law-compliant trade practices among kirana merchants.

Begum Bazar is one of the largest wholesale and retail markets for provisions in Hyderabad, serving a wide cross-section of the city. The association's request to spare genuine traders there is aimed at ensuring that routine checks do not disrupt the legitimate supply chain. THKMA also said it would conduct internal awareness programmes for its members on food safety norms.

THKMA is one of the key representative bodies for grocery retailers in Hyderabad, and its stance is likely to influence the conduct of thousands of shops. The development comes at a time when city authorities are intensifying checks on food adulteration to protect public health. The merchants association's proactive decision underscores its commitment to weeding out unscrupulous elements from the trade.