Delhi Government’s Crackdown on Unhygienic Food Outlets: Over 1,000 Shops Sealed in Major Cleanliness Drive

New Delhi – In a decisive move to address the growing concerns over food safety and hygiene, the Delhi government, along with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), has sealed more than 1,000 unauthorized and unsanitary food outlets across the national capital. The enforcement campaign, conducted between April and June 2025, targeted food establishments operating without licenses and in violation of hygiene regulations. A cumulative fine exceeding ₹78 lakh has also been imposed during the drive.

Focus of the Campaign

The campaign was launched with a clear objective: to rid densely populated areas — especially those near schools, religious places like temples and mosques — of unlicensed and unhygienic food vendors. The move is part of a broader public health initiative to curb the spread of foodborne illnesses caused by contaminated or substandard food.

Between April and June, MCD conducted inspections at 5,040 locations across the city. These included butcher shops, dhabas, sweet shops, juice corners, and restaurants. Out of these, 1,029 establishments were found flouting food safety and sanitation norms and were subsequently sealed. Additionally, 3,107 notices were issued, and 1,038 establishments were served challans.

Zones with the Most Action

The drive witnessed particularly robust enforcement in three major zones:

• Central Zone: 840 inspections, 237 outlets sealed, 81 challans issued
• West Zone: 640 inspections, 157 outlets sealed
• South Zone: 561 inspections, 151 outlets sealed

These zones were the most active and strict in enforcing compliance during the campaign.

Breakdown of Penalties and Revenue

The campaign yielded a total penalty collection of ₹78,70,124. The breakdown is as follows:

• Sanitation violations: ₹27.54 lakh
• Property violations: ₹21.74 lakh
• Health-related challans: ₹21.74 lakh
• Food safety violations: ₹6.66 lakh

Among all zones, West Zone contributed the highest revenue collection at approximately ₹18.29 lakh.

Impact Reaches Parliament

Interestingly, the impact of Delhi’s stricter hygiene standards has extended to the Parliament as well. Following new guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health, healthier meal options have now been introduced in the parliamentary canteen. Members of Parliament are now being served meals that are low in calories, carbohydrates, and sodium. Options include millet-based dishes, gluten-free meals, and food rich in fiber and protein.

Future Measures and Legal Oversight

MCD has confirmed that it will intensify surveillance on repeat violators. The civic body plans to work in close coordination with the Food Safety Department for follow-up inspections. In cases of persistent non-compliance, legal action will be pursued.

This sweeping crackdown reflects a firm commitment by the Delhi government to improve public health, ensure food safety, and uphold hygiene standards in public eating spaces. The message is clear: flouting food safety norms will no longer be tolerated in the national capital.