NHRC Seeks Report on Action Against Whistleblowers in FSSAI Recruitment Case

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Union Health Ministry, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), and Delhi Police over a complaint alleging that whistleblowers were targeted for exposing suspected irregularities in a recruitment process.

The Commission has sought a detailed action taken report within two weeks , while directing authorities to examine both the recruitment allegations and the subsequent police action.

According to the complaint, certain candidates allegedly submitted fraudulent documents during recruitment to the FSSAI. While the exact nature of these documents has not been specified, they could relate to qualifications, experience, or other eligibility criteria. The complainant claimed that an internal inquiry conducted by the FSSAI found some individuals guilty , indicating possible malpractice in the selection process.

The controversy, however, centres on the aftermath of these findings. Individuals described as “whistleblowers” those who exposed the alleged wrongdoing in the larger public interest reportedly shared portions of the inquiry report. The complainant has maintained that the information was disseminated in good faith, without alteration or malicious intent .

Subsequently, an FIR was registered in March 2026 against certain persons, including social media users, for allegedly circulating confidential or possibly tampered official documents . Delhi Police said the case was based on a complaint from an FSSAI representative, which flagged the unauthorised circulation of internal records that could harm the organisation’s reputation. Notices were also issued to platforms, including X, to identify accounts involved.

Raising concern over this action, one of the whistleblowers approached the NHRC, alleging that those exposing irregularities were being penalised instead of the perpetrators . NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo said the complaint pointed to a situation where individuals acting in public interest may have faced legal consequences.

Taking cognisance under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the Commission observed that the allegations prima facie indicate possible human rights violations . It directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Central Delhi, to ensure that the identity, safety, and privacy of the whistleblowers are protected , in accordance with the Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014.

The NHRC has also asked that the FSSAI’s internal inquiry report be made part of the ongoing police investigation . Additionally, the Health Ministry has been directed to clarify whether any inquiry was conducted into alleged recruitment irregularities and what action has been taken against those found responsible.

While the allegations point to possible recruitment fraud , details regarding the exact nature of the irregularities or the method used remain unclear. The case now hinges on official responses, which are expected to shed light on both the recruitment process and the treatment of those who brought the issue to light.