SC halts implementation of iodized salt act
The order noted that, despite the Act being passed decades ago, no corresponding regulations have been formulated to date.
KATHMANDU: The Supreme Court has issued an interim order directing the government not to implement the “Iodized Salt (Production and Distribution) Act, 2055” starting from Shrawan 1, 2082.
A joint bench of Justices Til Prasad Shrestha and Mahesh Sharma Poudel issued the order on Asar 30, stating that the Act, passed nearly 25 years ago, lacks the essential regulations required for its effective implementation.
The order noted that, despite the Act being passed decades ago, no corresponding regulations have been formulated to date.
Implementing the Act without the necessary groundwork could directly impact the supply and distribution of iodized salt—an issue closely tied to public health and livelihood. The court emphasized that doing so could lead to complications, echoing concerns raised in previous cases.
The court stated, “There is no evidence of irreparable harm in delaying the implementation of the Act. Given the nature of the issue, it is more appropriate to decide on the matter when a final verdict is reached.” Therefore, the government has been directed not to enforce the notice published in the Nepal Gazette announcing the Act’s enforcement from Shrawan 1.
The stay order also highlighted that the absence of required regulations is a primary reason for suspending the Act’s enforcement.
Advocate Shilat Maharjan, who filed the writ petition, argued that enforcing the outdated Act would pave the way for private sector import and distribution of iodized salt, which could have severe long-term impacts on public health.
He has demanded the Act be annulled altogether.
The case remains under consideration for a final verdict.
