Zero-tolerance policy against corruption and adulteration to be strictly enforced: Special Assistant for Food Dr Muhammad Israr Khan
The Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for Food, Dr Muhammad Israr Khan, has said that the provision of safe and quality food to citizens will be ensured at all costs, and corruption will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
He expressed these views while chairing a review meeting on the ongoing projects and overall performance of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Authority.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Food Shah Mahmood, Director General Food Authority Kashif Iqbal Jilani, Director Operations Muhammad Yousaf, Director Administration Amir Hassan, Director Technical Dr Abdul Sattar Shah, Director Finance Zahir Mahmood, field staff of Peshawar Division, and officers from other districts who participated online.
Dr Israr Khan emphasized that effective and strict measures are essential for the promotion of quality food and elimination of substandard and adulterated products. He directed field staff to perform their duties with dedication and consider their responsibilities as a form of service to the public.
He further instructed that all edible items coming from Punjab must be closely monitored and strict surveillance should be ensured to prevent the circulation of substandard food products. However, he clarified that business activities should not be unnecessarily affected and focus should remain on improving standards rather than harassing traders.
Dr. Israr warned that strict action would be taken against habitual adulteration mafias, and no leniency would be shown to offenders.
He also instructed field staff to maintain polite and professional behavior with food business operators and avoid unnecessary pressure on them.
Appreciating the overall performance of the Food Authority, Dr Israr Khan said that the institution must further enhance its efficiency and assured that all basic requirements of field staff would be provided.
During the briefing, Director General Food Authority Kashif Iqbal Jilani highlighted ongoing regulatory reforms, staff shortages, and other administrative challenges faced by the department.