Youth from the Sikar and Bikaner regions have launched a major public movement against food adulteration, the use of toxic chemicals in eatables, and misleading advertisements. Under the banner of the 'Food Reality March', a foot journey spanning over 700 kilometers is being undertaken from Bikaner to Jantar Mantar in Delhi. The caravan, which kicked off on September 4, reached Fatehpur Shekhawati on Tuesday morning, where locals welcomed the marchers near Budhgiri Madhi.
This youth-led march is traveling from village to village and city to city, educating people about the dangers posed by adulterated food items and hazardous chemicals to public health. The foot march is being led by Damit Gehlot, while Jayant Mund-Mund is guiding the campaign forward. According to the organizers, the journey will pass through Ratangarh, Fatehpur, Lachhmangarh, Sikar, Jaipur, Kotputli, Behror, and Gurugram over the next 25 days before reaching Delhi. Along the way, participants are interacting with residents to raise awareness regarding the quality of everyday food items.
The organizers pointed out that the presence of artificial milk, mava, paneer, flour, and adulterated spices in the market has turned into a severe hazard for common people's health. Concerns were also raised over lethal chemicals utilized to ripen fruits and crops quickly or to boost production. The youth emphasized that food security is not merely a health issue, as it directly impacts future generations as well.
Through the 'Food Reality March', 12 principal demands related to food security are being placed before the central and state governments. These include provisions for stringent punishment against adulterators, a ban on lethal chemicals used in ripening fruits and crops, and clear information printed in Hindi on food products. Additionally, demands have been made to establish a free food testing laboratory in every district and to set up fast-track courts for the swift disposal of food adulteration cases. The marchers stressed that merely enacting laws is insufficient and that effective monitoring and strict enforcement are equally vital.
Having started from Bikaner, the march is now making its way toward Delhi. Passing through various towns and villages, the participants are actively engaging citizens to join the cause. Organizers stated that upon reaching Delhi, a demonstration will be held at Jantar Mantar to present their demands to the government. The youth demand that both central and state governments enact strict laws and effectively enforce existing frameworks to ensure safe and unadulterated food for the public.
