Shimla: What looks shiny on the outside is turning out to be rotten within — quite literally. Angry residents in Shimla are now raising serious questions over the quality of fruits and vegetables being sold by some of the town’s so-called “premium” stores, accusing them of openly flouting consumer laws and risking public health.
The latest trigger came when a local school teacher purchased two red apple of some premium quality apples with sticker at a steep ₹300 per kg from a well-known store, Diamond in BCS in New Shimla today.
The apples appeared fresh at first glance, but the truth surfaced the moment her son took a bite at home.
“The taste was suddenly bitter. When we cut open the apples, they were completely rotten from inside. Every single piece was unfit to eat,” she said, clearly shaken by the experience(see pic).
The seller doesn't know whether the apple was imported or locally produced taken out from CA store.
This isn’t an isolated case. Residents allege that the same store has repeatedly been selling stale fruits and vegetables.
In another instance at Diamond, a customer who paid ₹150 for coconut water was left stunned to find the coconut completely dry from inside.
When he approached the shop owner, the response was dismissive: “We can’t see inside the coconut.”
Locals say such arrogance reflects how confidently these Lalas are operating, knowing well that there is little to no enforcement on the ground as food inspectorand SMC health officer nevery raid these strores- Diamond, Vishal Megamart in ChhotaShimla, GMHR, Atithis in BCS taking sample.
Adding to the frustration, customers are even being charged ₹10 for carry bags by the Diamond — something roadside vendors often provide free of cost.
When questioned, the store owner reportedly brushed it off, claiming they sell cheaper produce compared to others — a claim residents strongly dispute seeking action against the store.
The problem, however, is not limited to a single outlet. Complaints are also surfacing against others in the city, including well-known ration and fruit sellers, for allegedly pushing stale and substandard food items at high prices.
Residents squarely blame the lack of checks by food safety authorities. “There are no inspections, no sampling, no raids. Officials sit in offices while consumers are left at the mercy ofshopowners”, said a local resident.
What makes the issue more alarming is the absence of strong consumer activism. Many customers choose to ignore such incidents, allowing erring Lalas to continue unchecked.
Legal experts point out that selling rotten or unsafe food is a clear violation of the Consumer Protection Act and food safety norms, and can attract strict penalties if pursued.
But on the ground, the law appears toothless.
As Shimla’s consumers continue to shell out high prices, they are not just losing money — they are being exposed to serious health risks.
The question now is simple: how long will the FSO remain silent spectators while certain Lalas play with public health?
