Guwahati's Iconic Fastfood Joint 'Reboti' Issued Shutdown Notice by Food Safety Department Citing Hygiene Concerns

Guwahati, August 3, 2019:

The famous fastfood joint in Guwahati, 'Reboti', has been issued a shutdown notice by the Food and Safety Department, citing the alleged lack of 'hygiene'. This continues the department's ongoing crackdown against Guwahati eateries which are being accused of disregarding the various norms laid down by the Department for them to be allowed to function.

Speaking to Inside Northeast, owner Narayan Chandra Bora said: "We don't have a ceiling. We don't have running water either. The floor is not properly plastered. We have been asked to fix these issues.  Moreover, the people working in the kitchen have been instructed to wear gloves and caps. We have also been asked to buy ketchup instead of manufacturing our own. All these renovations will cost in excess of Rs. 1 lakh, but I do agree that hygiene is of utmost importance. I requested that I be allowed to carry out the renovation work on Sundays, but the authorities were insistent that the restaurant be closed down for a week and all these issues be resolved."

'Reboti', which is one of the well-renowned fast food joints in the city, has often been accused of serving unhygienic food. There have also been accusations that the water used to cook food at the restaurant is kept in the open, raising concerns about contamination.

A former customer of 'Reboti' told Inside Northeast: "The fact that 'Reboti' serves tasty food for a reasonable price has never been in doubt. However, this restaurant, as well as other restaurants, should ensure that steps are being taken to maintain the hygienic quality of the food so that the customers are not at risk of developing food-related ailments. I think this will serve as a wake-up call to the other restaurants in the city, as well as elsewhere. Hygiene should always be a priority."

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