Chandigarh, March 26
Former Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab and Member of Parliament, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, expressed serious concern today over the rejection of a consignment of Verka dry milk by the Indian Army. He criticized the state government over questions raised about a major dairy brand under Punjab’s administration. He questioned the quality control and monitoring system of the state government, stating that if a product fails to meet army standards, its distribution among the general public is a serious public health concern.
Randhawa said that Verka has always been a matter of pride for Punjab, and the current Aam Aadmi Party government has tarnished the reputation of this prominent brand. The responsibility for the questions raised about its quality lies entirely with the AAP government. He Randhawa stated that this issue raises doubts about Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s claims of good governance and demanded immediate transparency from the government.
Randhawa called for a high-level independent investigation into the matter and urged the relevant authorities to make public the quality inspection report of the consignment rejected by the army. He also emphasized that if any negligence or lapses are found during the investigation, action must be taken against the responsible officials.
Randhawa added that the government must clarify whether the milk products being used by the people of Punjab have been tested according to proper standards and ensure that public health is not being compromised. He warned that if milk rejected by the army is being distributed to the general public, it would be a criminal offense, and those responsible should not be spared.
Randhawa also highlighted the long-standing reputation of Punjab’s dairy sector, noting that institutions like Verka have always earned public trust, which must not be undermined. He urged the state government to provide clear assurance regarding the safety of dairy products available in the market so that the public remains confident and not alarmed.
