Dudhsagar Dairy slapgate: the story behind milk powder purchase despite existing bulk stock

A heated argument broke out during Friday’s board meeting of Mehsana’s Dudhsagar Dairy, where the dairy chairman Ashok Chaudhari slapped vice-chairman Yogesh Patel. Following the clash, factionalism among the dairy’s directors escalated to a new level. On Saturday, Patel visited the dairy’s warehouse in Charada village of Mansa taluka to inspect the stock of milk powder.

He alleged that despite having ample milk powder in storage, additional purchases were made, and around 200 to 300 metric tons of expired milk powder was lying in the godown. The inspection led to a commotion as locals gathered at the site.

Patel said that, due to monsoon, he requested the watchman to open the godown to check for any water damage. During this inspection, he reportedly found a large quantity of expired milk powder.

Later speaking to the media, Patel claimed that although the dairy already had 15,000 metric tonnes of milk powder, a fresh purchase of 5,000 metric tonnes was made unnecessarily. He questioned this move during the Friday board meeting. He reiterated his claim that 200 to 300 metric tonnes of expired powder was lying in the Charada godown.

He demanded a clarification from the chairman of Dudhsagar Dairy over the expired stock and raised concerns whether such powder could be sold to consumers. He added that a complaint about the expired milk powder stored in the godown would be submitted to the district registrar.

During the inspection of the milk powder at the Charada warehouse, a crowd had gathered, causing chaos. Fearing an attack, Patel stated that he would seek police protection from the inspector general of police and the superintendent of police.

Chairman responds to allegations 

Responding to Patel’s serious allegation, Chaudhari clarified that Dudhsagar Dairy has been manufacturing milk powder for 60 years and sells it under the Amul brand in India and abroad. He asserted that the dairy follows all quality standards laid down by the milk federation to maintain customer trust. He accused Patel of fabricating false claims for personal political gain.

Patel said he had previously received threats from the chairman’s supporters and feared an attack in the near future. He expressed concern for his life and demanded security.

No FIR registered yet in the slap incident

Patel submitted a written complaint to Mehsana B Division police station against Chairman Chaudhari for slapping him and breaking his glasses and chain during the board meeting. However, as of now, no police complaint has been registered.