RAM LABHAYA vs MUNICIPAL CORORATION OF DELHI AND ANR.

The Supreme Court addressed the interpretation of Section 10(7) of the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954, determining that the requirement for the Food Inspector to call independent witnesses is directory rather than mandatory. The Court upheld the High Court's decision to convict the appellant despite the absence of independent witnesses, as the Food Inspector had made reasonable efforts to secure their presence. The ruling clarified that non-compliance with the provision does not automatically invalidate the trial or conviction if the Inspector acted in good faith and made attempts to comply.