Bokaro: The canteen at Delhi Public School Bokaro, which was sealed on Thursday over alleged food safety violations, resumed operations within 33 hours after authorities lifted the closure following a compliance review.
Food Safety Officer Gulab Lakra removed the seal on Friday in the presence of Executive Magistrate Jaya Kumari and police personnel. Earlier in the day, a meeting chaired by Civil Surgeon Dr. Abhay Bhushan Prasad reviewed the situation with school officials and the outsourced canteen operator.
During the meeting, the operator submitted updated documents confirming possession of a valid licence and assured full compliance with food safety norms. Following this, authorities permitted the reopening of the canteen around 7:30 PM under official supervision.
Swift Action After Inspection
The facility had initially been sealed on Thursday at around 11:30 AM after a surprise inspection revealed multiple lapses. The crackdown was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Prasad, who also serves as the Designated Officer for food safety in Bokaro.
The inspection team, led by Gulab Lakra and supported by police personnel, carried out the raid in the presence of Magistrate Jaya Kumari.
Multiple Violations Detected
Officials said the action followed a complaint from the Food Safety Commissioner’s office in Namkum. During the inspection, the canteen was found to be in violation of provisions under the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 and related 2011 regulations.
Key violations included:
- Absence of a valid FSSAI licence or registration
- No formal authorization from the school administration
- Lack of pest control records and staff medical fitness certificates
- Poor hygiene conditions with visible filth
- Food handlers not using gloves or head covers
- Expired items, including packaged pickle and vegetarian mayonnaise, found in stock
Samples of turmeric powder, chilli powder, edible oil, and curd were collected and sent for laboratory testing. Officials indicated that further action will depend on the test results.
Resistance During Sealing
Authorities also reported obstruction from certain school staff and management during the inspection. With police assistance, the team proceeded to seal the canteen on-site.
DPS Management Responds
The DPS Bokaro administration distanced itself from the alleged violations, stating that the canteen is operated by an external vendor. The school maintained that strict action would be taken if wrongdoing is established but claimed the raid appeared “partially biased.”
The management also alleged procedural lapses, including the absence of a formal raid order and alleged mistreatment of its representatives before the sealing action.
Despite the controversy, officials emphasized that public health and student safety remain the top priority.
