Karnataka launches QR code system to report food, drug safety violations

Bengaluru: The Karnataka government on Monday introduced a QR code-based complaint management system that allows citizens to report violations related to food and drug safety. The initiative, launched by Health Minister U.T. Khader, is aimed at increasing transparency and public participation in regulatory oversight.

Under the system, citizens will be able to scan QR codes displayed at public places, such as food establishments, hospitals, and pharmacies, and directly file a complaint about any suspected violation. The complaints, once submitted, will be tracked by designated officials, who have been instructed to take follow-up action on every flagged issue. This is expected to shorten the time between a violation being noticed and action being taken.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Khader said that the government is committed to ensuring the safety of food and drugs for all citizens. He noted that the new digital mechanism will make it easier for people to alert authorities without having to visit government offices or make phone calls. He also announced that a toll-free number and a dedicated call centre will be operational in the near future, providing an additional channel for those who may not be comfortable using digital tools.

Alongside the complaint system, the Minister launched the “Eat Right” campaign, a public awareness initiative designed to promote healthy eating habits among citizens. The campaign will focus on educating people about nutritious choices, reading food labels, and understanding the importance of a balanced diet. The state health department is expected to roll out outreach activities and partnerships with local organisations to take the message to schools, colleges, and communities.

The QR code system is part of a broader effort by the Karnataka government to strengthen enforcement of food safety standards and drug regulations. In recent years, the state has taken multiple steps to streamline inspections and improve consumer protection. The use of technology in public health governance is seen as a positive move towards greater accountability.

Health department officials stated that the data collected through the complaints will be used to identify recurring issues and guide policy decisions. They also clarified that the identity of complainants will be kept confidential to encourage more people to come forward with reports.

The launch comes at a time when public awareness about food safety and drug quality is on the rise across the country. With the increasing consumption of packaged and processed foods, the need for effective grievance redressal mechanisms has become more important than ever. Experts say that citizen-friendly complaint systems can play a crucial role in deterring violations and ensuring that businesses comply with legal standards.

While the QR code system is a welcome step, its success will depend on several factors, including public awareness, the responsiveness of officials, and the speed of follow-up action. The government has assured that it will monitor the system closely and make adjustments as necessary. The dedication of a call centre and toll-free number will further enhance accessibility.

Residents of Karnataka can look forward to a more straightforward way of reporting issues related to the food they eat and the medicines they consume. The initiative reflects a growing trend towards digital governance and citizen-centric services in the state.