Tandoori Roti Makers Arrested in Hathras and Aligarh Over Alleged Spitting on Dough Videos
In a shocking incident that has raised serious concerns about food safety and hygiene, two tandoori roti makers have been arrested in separate cases in Uttar Pradesh after videos surfaced allegedly showing them spitting on chapati dough before placing it in tandoors. The arrests occurred in Hathras and Aligarh, with police taking swift action based on video evidence and complaints.
Hathras Incident: FIR Registered Under BNS Section 272
In Hathras, a 40-year-old tandoori roti maker was arrested after a video went viral showing him allegedly spitting on chapati dough at an eatery located in the Madhubani locality under the Kotwali police station limits. The police registered a First Information Report (FIR) at the Hathras Kotwali police station under Section 272 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to acts likely to spread diseases dangerous to life. This action was taken based on a written complaint and the compelling video evidence that circulated widely.
DSP Hathras Y K Narayanan confirmed that the accused, identified as Shadab Khan, is currently being questioned by authorities. "The matter is under thorough investigation. We are examining all aspects, and further legal action will be taken based on the findings from our inquiry," Narayanan stated, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations.
Complaint Filed by Bajrang Dal Member
The complaint in the Hathras case was filed by Shivam Sharma, a member of the Bajrang Dal. Sharma alleged that the incident took place at Nizam Hotel and claimed that this was not an isolated event. He asserted that several people had been served contaminated food from the eatery on previous occasions, suggesting it was a regular practice rather than a one-off occurrence. This allegation has heightened public outrage and calls for stricter food safety regulations.
Eatery Owner Denies Allegations, Claims Extortion Attempt
In response to the accusations, the owner of the eatery in Hathras has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. The owner argued that the video does not clearly show any spitting and instead alleged that an unidentified person recorded the clip and attempted to extort money. "The person who recorded this video sent it to me and demanded Rs 1 lakh, threatening to make it public if the payment was not made. This appears to be a malicious act aimed at tarnishing our reputation," the owner claimed, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation.
Aligarh Incident: Similar Arrest Made
In a separate but strikingly similar incident, a 30-year-old tandoori roti maker was arrested in Aligarh. This arrest followed the circulation of a video that allegedly showed him spitting on chapatis before placing them in a tandoor at a roadside eatery on Saturday. The Aligarh police acted promptly upon receiving the video evidence, highlighting a pattern of such disturbing behavior in the region.
Both cases have sparked widespread condemnation from the public and health authorities, who are urging for increased vigilance and enforcement of food hygiene standards. The use of Section 272 of the BNS underscores the legal gravity of such acts, as they pose significant risks to public health by potentially spreading life-threatening diseases.
As investigations continue in both Hathras and Aligarh, authorities are focusing on gathering more evidence and witness statements to determine the full extent of these incidents. The arrests serve as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining high standards in food preparation and the need for consumers to remain cautious about where they dine.
