The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken action against the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) following a viral video that allegedly depicted catering staff washing utensils in a train toilet. The incident reportedly occurred on board the Mumbai–Ernakulam Duronto Express and has drawn widespread attention. The video was shared by the social media account Truth On Track, which highlighted the lack of hygiene in food handling practices on trains.

In the video, an IRCTC employee was seen inside the toilet, with utensils placed in a basket on a closed seat. The post suggested that plates and cutlery used for serving food were being cleaned in unhygienic conditions. This raised concerns as passengers in the First AC coach generally expect higher cleanliness standards than seen in this troubling footage. The account has since called for a response from both railway authorities and IRCTC regarding actions taken in light of the complaint.

As the video circulated online, a passenger filming the incident confronted the staff member, questioning the suitability of the toilet for washing utensils. The employee did not respond, leading the passenger to ask an attendant outside the toilet if they were aware of the situation. The attendant expressed that he had only just noticed the activity and seemed unaware of the implications of such hygiene lapses.

FSSAI’s Regulatory Action

The FSSAI responded promptly to the viral video by issuing a notice to IRCTC, seeking a factual account of the allegations presented. The notice emphasised that the practice of washing utensils in a toilet contravenes hygiene regulations outlined in Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011. These regulations stipulate that food business operators must maintain hygienic conditions throughout the food preparation and serving process.

FSSAI highlighted the importance of proper handling and cleaning procedures to ensure food safety and prevent contamination. The authority stated, “It has come to FSSAI’s notice through a video circulating on social media that utensils used for catering services in Train No 12223 – LTT-ERS Duronto are allegedly being washed inside the toilet of the train.” This statement underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the need for regulatory compliance.

As part of its notice, FSSAI requested that IRCTC provide a thorough explanation for the actions depicted in the video. This scrutiny follows a growing demand for accountability within the rail catering sector, especially as incidents involving food hygiene can significantly affect public health and traveller experiences.

Awaiting IRCTC’s Response

Despite the serious nature of the allegations, IRCTC has yet to publicly address the notice issued by FSSAI. The absence of a response from IRCTC further fuels concerns about hygiene practices in train catering, especially in a service environment where cleanliness is expected. Public pressure for a resolution is mounting as more individuals become aware of the unsatisfactory conditions depicted in the video.

The implications of this incident extend beyond regulatory compliance; it raises questions regarding the systemic practices within railway catering services. Passengers rightfully anticipate a certain standard of care, particularly in premium class accommodations like the First AC coach. As authorities seek clarity, the railway catering agency faces scrutiny regarding its adherence to hygiene protocols.

Future developments in this matter are awaited as FSSAI continues to enforce regulations designed to protect consumers. The situation highlights the critical need for uniform standards across food service operations, particularly in public transport. Stakeholders are keenly observing how IRCTC will respond to the allegations and what measures will be implemented to ensure food safety in railway catering services.

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