CUTTACK: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognisance of a complaint alleging the distribution of untested supplementary food under Chhatua nutrition programme to the targeted groups in Odisha and sought a detailed action taken report (ATR) from the state government within four weeks. Chhatua is a protein-rich mixture, comprising roasted grains, pulses and nuts.
The Chhatua nutrition programme, which aims to combat malnutrition in Odisha is a key component of the Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP) under ICDS, providing take home ration (THR) to children (6 months to 3 years), pregnant women and lactating mothers.
The complaint by Jeypore-based advocate and human rights activist Anup Kumar Patro was placed before the Commission on Monday. After examining the allegations, the NHRC directed that a copy of the complaint be forwarded to the chief secretary of Odisha for necessary action. The NHRC has scheduled the matter for further consideration after four weeks, pending the state government’s ATR.
According to the petitioner, the state distributes Chhatua through nearly 8,000 self-help groups. However, the State Food Testing Laboratory in Bhubaneswar reportedly takes up to 60 days to issue quality reports, while the product’s shelf life is only 30 days.
This gap results in the consumption of food before safety verification and thus puts the health of beneficiaries at risk. The complaint alleged such post-consumption testing undermines monitoring mechanisms and raised concerns of regulatory non-compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
As interim relief, the plea suggested either halting untested distribution or providing direct benefit transfer to beneficiaries for purchasing certified food.