Lab reports reveals Indira Canteens food not safe for consumption,  DCM expresses doubt

Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara on Monday, March 18 expressed doubt over reports that stated food being served in Indira Canteen is unfit for human consumption.

Parameshwara speaking on the issue said that he had asked the Commissioner to submit a report to him, after taking samples from all 198 wards and get it examined from the lab. 

“Though the reports said food served in Indira Canteen is poisonous, but it is hard to believe,” he said.

Corporator Umesh Shetty has alleged that food served at the canteens are unfit for human consumption. He has reportedly based his allegations on food sample test conducted by Ramaiah advanced testing laboratory and Public health institute results which stated that food is not within satisfactory parameters. 

Indira canteen scheme was launched by Congress Government led by Siddharamiah in August 2017. It was inspired by the Amma Canteen of Tamil Nadu, with an intent to provide all meals of the day to needy, on subsidized prices. 

However, it has found itself in various controversies since its opening. Within two days of its opening of Indira Canteen in Bengaluru, reports had emerged that food at Indira Canteens was allegedly served without proper quality checks and in plastic drums.

In January 2018, the Karnataka Labor Forum had lodged a complaint with the DCP of anti-corruption bureau regarding a scam in Indira Canteen’s management. In December 2018 also it was reported that money meant for the Indira Canteen Scheme was diverted to loan waiver schemes.