Strict directives to stop adulterated food in madrasa canteens and nearby shops

This directive was issued in a circular signed by Deputy Director (Administration) of the Madrasa Education Directorate, Md. Shamiul Islam Pramanik. The circular stated that this step has been taken following instructions received from the Technical and Madrasa Education Division of the Ministry of Education.

The directives said all food and drinks supplied to students in madrasas must be sourced from safe, hygienic and quality sources. The madrasa canteen and temporary food selling points must be regularly monitored. Expired, adulterated or unhygienic food must not be sold under any circumstances. Instructions have been given to seek assistance from local administration if necessary.

In the government food distribution programme, utmost caution must be exercised in maintaining the quality, preservation and distribution of food. When purchasing food, it is mandatory to procure from legitimate sources, keep cash memos or invoices, and check expiry dates.

Instructions have been given to regularly clean kitchens, dining spaces and drinking water sources. Emphasis has been placed on organising awareness meetings and seminars with students, teachers and guardians on safe food and the harmful effects of adulteration.

Every madrasa must form a 'Safe Food Monitoring Committee' of at least five members led by the principal or head of the institution. The committee must meet at least once a month and inspect the food system.

It has also been advised to keep watch on shops around madrasas to ensure that adulterated or harmful food is not sold there, and to make students aware. If any sale of unsafe food comes to notice, the local administration must be informed.

Each institution must have a specific mechanism for receiving complaints about food adulteration or irregularities. If any student falls ill after consuming food, prompt medical treatment must be arranged and the matter must be reported to the guardians, health authorities and administration.

In addition, directives have been given to observe National Safe Food Day and display posters and banners on safe food at visible places in madrasas.