HC urges Tamil Nadu horticulture department to clarify watermelons safety

Chennai: The Madras High Court directed the Horticulture Department of Tamil Nadu to clear the confusion arising among consumers regarding the quality of watermelons that are selling in the state this summer. The court urged the department to go for random checks and find out whether harmful chemicals are injected into fruits for the impressive colour and sweetness. Since then the demand for watermelons has dipped due to fear among consumers, putting farmers on the receiving end.

Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy issued this order on April 16, 2025, after a petition was filed by M. Venkatesan, President of the Chengalpattu Farmers Welfare Association. The petition claimed that a Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) official has created panic among consumers, claiming that chemicals are being used in the fruits.

Also Read: UP govt to revamp Pollution Control Board, offices in all districts: CM

The farmers’ lawyer said that Chengalpattu farmers cultivate watermelons in January with the hope of getting a handsome price in summer. Watermelon farming takes place on 16,000 acres of land. Farmers have to spend up to Rs 68,000 per acre. Those who take land on lease have to spend an additional Rs 30,000 per acre, expecting to get a decent price for the fruit.

A government lawyer said to the court that the Horticulture Department had given the seeds to the farmers and had already conducted random checks. No chemicals were found in the watermelons available in the market.

The judge urged the department to issue a press statement to restore consumers’ belief regarding the safety and quality of watermelons, issuing a notice to the FSDA official to clear the matter by June 9. This initiative is set to be a good move for restoring consumers’ faith and the farmers’ earnings.