Kolkata Clamps Down: 40 Eateries Lose Licenses Over Rotten Food, Wall Paint in Biryani

Kolkata's dining scene just got a massive shake-up, with the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) suspending the food license of 40 restaurants and eateries after a week-long inspection drive revealed shocking safety violations. Officials found over 1,200 kg of rotten and contaminated food, but the most alarming discovery was traces of wall paint allegedly mixed into biryani at one establishment. This drastic action, announced by KMC Commissioner Smita Pandey, aims to protect public health amidst rampant hygiene failures across the city's food sector. The crackdown, intensified ahead of the crucial Durga Puja festive season, uncovered widespread issues including fungal growth, unhygienic storage, and rampant cockroach and rat infestations in food preparation areas. Popular names like Nizam's, Shimla Biryani, Karim's, and even outlets of Arsalan were among those facing action for failing basic food safety standards. This aggressive stance follows a state government directive for a 'zero tolerance' approach against food adulteration and unsafe practices, highlighting a broader, ongoing campaign across West Bengal to ensure better quality food for consumers. The license suspensions are temporary, initially for two weeks, giving the affected establishments a chance to implement strict corrective measures and comply with prescribed food safety standards before reapplying. KMC plans to hold workshops to guide these eateries, signaling that while the immediate impact is severe, the long-term goal is to elevate hygiene across the board. Consumers can expect continued vigilance from authorities, as this move reflects a growing national focus on food safety, pushing eateries to clean up their act permanently.