NHRC Presses FSSAI for Answers: Is India's Food Environment Fueling a Public Health Crisis?

 

Case No.: 4227/90/0/2021

Diary No.: 15413/IN/2021
Complainants: Shruti Nagvanshi and Shirin Shabana Khan
Authority Concerned: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
Latest NHRC Action: Additional Information Called For (20 January 2026)

Four Years Later, NHRC Still Awaits Answers

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) continues to pursue a landmark complaint concerning the impact of unhealthy food consumption on the health rights of youth, women, and children across India.

In a significant development, the Commission has once again sought information from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), expressing concern that despite repeated notices and reminders, crucial information regarding expert committee findings and action taken has not been submitted.

The case, originally filed in September 2021 by Shruti Nagvanshi and Shirin Shabana Khan, raises a fundamental question:

Can the growing burden of diabetes, obesity, and non-communicable diseases be viewed solely as a health issue, or is it also a human rights concern?

The Right to Health Cannot Be Ignored

India is witnessing an alarming increase in lifestyle-related diseases.

A recent report highlighted that in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic, diabetes cases have increased dramatically. The report notes that nearly 11.7 crore adults are living with diabetes, compared to significantly lower figures in previous years.

The rise in diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases is no longer limited to urban populations. Increasingly, these conditions are affecting children, adolescents, and economically vulnerable communities.

This trend raises serious concerns regarding:

  • Excessive sugar consumption
  • Ultra-processed foods
  • Misleading food marketing
  • Lack of clear warning labels
  • Inadequate consumer awareness
  • Children's exposure to unhealthy food advertising

Why This Is a Human Rights Issue

Article 21 of the Constitution of India guarantees the right to life, which courts have repeatedly interpreted to include the right to health.

When millions of children are exposed to food products high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats without adequate warnings or protections, the issue extends beyond personal choice. It becomes a matter of public policy, regulation, and accountability.

The NHRC complaint argues that vulnerable populations deserve stronger protection from practices that contribute to long-term health harms.

NHRC's Continuing Intervention

Since 2022, the NHRC has repeatedly sought reports and clarifications from FSSAI and related authorities. However, according to the latest proceedings, the Commission noted that information regarding the Expert Committee report and action taken by FSSAI has still not been fully furnished.

The Commission has warned that failure to respond may compel it to invoke powers under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 and require the personal appearance of concerned officials.

Such observations underscore the seriousness with which the Commission views the issue.

The Need for Stronger Food Policy Reforms

India stands at a critical moment in public health governance.

Several measures require urgent consideration:

Front-of-Pack Warning Labels

Consumers should be able to quickly identify foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.

Protection of Children

Restrictions on marketing unhealthy foods to children are necessary to safeguard child health.

Public Awareness Campaigns

Citizens need accurate information regarding nutrition and lifestyle-related risks.

Independent Scientific Review

Policy decisions must be guided by transparent scientific evidence and public health priorities.

Corporate Accountability

Food manufacturers should be encouraged to reformulate products and adopt responsible marketing practices.

Beyond Regulation: Protecting Future Generations

The growing burden of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases threatens not only individual health but also the social and economic future of the country.

The question before the NHRC is larger than one complaint.

It concerns whether public institutions are doing enough to protect citizens—especially children—from preventable health risks.

As the Commission continues its examination of Case No. 4227/90/0/2021, the outcome could have important implications for food regulation, consumer rights, and public health policy in India.

The right to healthy food is inseparable from the right to health. Ensuring that right is not merely a policy choice—it is a human rights obligation.



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