FSSAI Files FIR Against Influencers Over Alleged Misinformation Campaign on Food Safety

In a major escalation, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated legal action against several social media influencers over alleged misinformation related to food safety. An FIR registered by the Delhi Police marks a shift from warnings to strict enforcement.

Authorities claim the case involves leaked confidential data, manipulated documents, and a coordinated attempt to undermine public trust.

FSSAI FIR: What Happened?

On April 3, 2026, an FIR was lodged at IP Estate Police Station in New Delhi following a formal complaint by FSSAI officials. The case has been registered under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act.

The regulator alleges that multiple social media accounts were involved in spreading misleading narratives using internal documents.

Key Charges Filed Against Influencers

Legal Sections Invoked

• Section 316 (BNS): Criminal breach of trust
• Section 72 (IT Act): Breach of confidentiality and privacy

These charges indicate that authorities suspect both misuse of sensitive data and unauthorized access to confidential information.

Social Media Accounts Under Scanner

Several well-known accounts on X (formerly Twitter) have been named in the FIR, including:

• @khurpenchh
• @YTKDIndia
• @gemsofbabus_
• @IamTheStory_
• @NalinisKitchen

Investigators believe these handles played a role in amplifying similar narratives across platforms.

Why Did FSSAI Take Action?

1. Alleged Data Leak and Insider Role

Authorities suspect that internal documents were accessed without authorization, possibly involving insider assistance.

2. Document Manipulation Claims

The complaint suggests that certain documents were edited or presented selectively to create a misleading picture of India’s food safety monitoring system.

3. Coordinated Online Campaign

Officials describe the activity as a “planned and synchronized effort” rather than isolated criticism, aimed at creating public distrust.

Delhi Police Investigation: Latest Updates

The investigation is actively progressing with several steps already taken:

Platform Data Requests: Authorities have contacted X to obtain account details, IP logs, and linked contact information

Digital Evidence Review: Forensic teams are verifying the authenticity of shared documents

Foreign Angle Probe: Officials are also examining possible overseas connections or funding

This indicates the case may extend beyond domestic social media activity.

Influencers Push Back: Free Speech Debate Intensifies

The FIR has sparked strong reactions online, with several accused influencers rejecting the allegations.

Claims of Targeting Critics

Some have described the action as an attempt to silence voices raising genuine concerns about food adulteration and safety lapses.

Public Reaction Divided

Supporters of FSSAI: Emphasize the need to prevent misinformation and protect institutional credibility

Supporters of Influencers: Argue that whistleblowing and accountability should not be criminalized

The issue has quickly evolved into a broader debate on freedom of expression vs regulatory control in India.

FAQs

1. Why did FSSAI file an FIR against influencers?

FSSAI alleges that certain influencers shared confidential and possibly manipulated documents to spread misinformation about food safety.

2. Which laws have been applied in the case?

The FIR includes Section 316 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Section 72 of the IT Act.

3. What role is Delhi Police playing?

Delhi Police is investigating the case, collecting digital evidence, and seeking user data from social media platforms.

4. Are foreign connections being investigated?

Yes, authorities are reportedly examining whether any accounts have links outside India or foreign funding sources.

5. What is the main controversy in this case?

The issue revolves around whether the influencers were spreading misinformation or highlighting genuine food safety concerns.