Ghazipur Dhaba Sealed After Video of Dead Rat in Curd

New Delhi, December 20, 2025: A wave of disgust has been triggered across Uttar Pradesh after a shocking video emerged from a roadside eatery in Ghazipur, showing a dead rat served in a bowl of curd. The incident, which took place at the well-known Samrat Dhaba (also referred to as New Samrat Dhaba) on the Ghazipur–Varanasi National Highway, has led to the immediate sealing of the establishment by district authorities. The footage, captured by a distressed customer, has since gone viral, raising serious questions about food safety standards at popular highway eateries.

A Disturbing Discovery on the Highway

The stomach-churning event was documented by a customer from the Muhammadabad tehsil who had stopped at the dhaba for a meal in December 2025. While eating, a dead rat was allegedly discovered submerged in a portion of curd served to him.

Also Read: GMC Handwara Orders Time-Bound Inquiry ‘Trolley of Shame’

Inspection Leads to Immediate Sealing

In response to the viral sensation, a surprise raid was conducted by the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) department. A team led by Ramesh Chandra Pandey, Joint Director of Food Safety, arrived at the Samrat Dhaba to inspect the premises. Based on these findings, the sealing of the dhaba was ordered immediately. A total ban on the preparation and sale of food has been imposed until further notice.

Strict Warnings for Food Establishments

The action has been described by authorities as a “zero-tolerance” approach toward the negligence of public health. While the dhaba operator reportedly admitted to the presence of the rat during questioning, samples of the curd and other food items have been sent for laboratory testing to determine the level of contamination. As the investigation continues, the incident serves as a grim reminder for travelers to be cautious of hygiene standards at roadside stops. The “rat in the curd” video has now become a symbol of the urgent need for a massive overhaul in food regulation enforcement across the state.