Police action targets data leak, not media: FSSAI sources
New Delhi, April 9
Government sources have clarified that the recent FIR lodged with the Delhi Police in connection with the leakage of information of an inquiry conducted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India is not aimed at silencing the media, but for identifying those responsible for leaking confidential information from FSSAI.
The sources said the FIR, registered against "unnamed" persons, does not target any individual journalist or outlet. Instead, it aims to trace the culprit believed to be behind the unauthorised release of sensitive data from FSSAI's office.
Officials also revealed that FSSAI had itself initiated a suo motu inquiry into recruitment-related complaints, which is still underway. The final report has not yet been submitted. However, portions of the ongoing inquiry are suspected to have been leaked by certain individuals to some social media handles.
According to sources, such leaks compromise the integrity of the process of investigation by alerting potential wrongdoers before the report is finalised and necessary action is considered.
Delhi Police, upon detecting the dissemination of inquiry-related information by some online platforms, has begun acting in accordance with the law. The investigation, officials emphasised, is focused on safeguarding the inquiry's credibility and ensuring that those attempting to sabotage it are held accountable. The source further clarified that such leakages jeopardise the investigation process.
Delhi Police had registered an FIR against some unidentified individuals over alleged unauthorised circulation of FSSAI documents.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While data leaks should be investigated, I hope this doesn't become a tool to avoid transparency. The public has a right to know about recruitment issues in such an important body. The line between leak and whistleblowing is thin.
Good clarification. Media should report, not become a platform for leaked half-baked information that can prejudice an ongoing inquiry. Let the authorities finish their job first.
As someone who follows food safety issues closely, this is concerning. If the inquiry is about recruitment complaints, it must be completed with integrity. Leaks help no one except those with something to hide.
The FIR is against 'unnamed' persons. That's standard procedure. Why is there even a debate? Find the source of the leak, take action, and also ensure the main recruitment inquiry is fair. Both things can happen.
Respectfully, the clarification is appreciated but the timing feels defensive. The focus should remain on the original recruitment complaints. What are they about? That's the real story for citizens worried about food safety governance.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.