Kerala High Court Directs Strict Enforcement of Ban on Chemical Kumkum, Plastic Sachets at Sabarimala
Pathanamthitta: The Kerala High Court has directed authorities to closely monitor and take strict action against the sale of prohibited chemical kumkum and plastic shampoo sachets in the Sabarimala area and Erumeli.
A Division Bench of Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V. and K.V. Jayakumar noted that eight inspection squads had been formed by the Local Self-Government Department in Kottayam to prevent the sale of banned products. The Court directed the squads to conduct effective inspections and submit periodic reports on violations and action taken.
The Bench also asked the State Pollution Control Board and Erumeli Grama Panchayat to coordinate with other departments to ensure strict implementation of the restrictions.
The Court examined a report by the Drugs Inspector, Kottayam, on action against kumkum products that fail to meet the standards prescribed under the Cosmetics Rules, 2020. Although awareness campaigns have been conducted among vendors and cosmetic suppliers, the Bench stressed that regular inspections and enforcement action are essential.
The Drugs Control Department cited difficulties in initiating prosecution under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, while the Panchayat maintained that prosecution was necessary to deter violations.
The Court directed senior officers of the Drugs Control Department to appear at the next hearing and explain the difficulties and possible solutions.
The restrictions on chemical kumkum and plastic shampoo sachets were imposed last year following concerns over environmental pollution. The case will be considered again on November 19.