Key Update

The Jharkhand High Court on Friday directed the state government to strictly enforce food safety regulations framed by the Central government and immediately halt the open sale of meat and chicken across the state. A division bench of Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Rajesh Shankar issued the directions while hearing a public interest litigation filed by Shyamanand Pandey.

Court Expresses Strong Concern Over Hygiene Practices

During the hearing, the petitioner highlighted rampant, unhygienic and unregulated meat sales in public areas. He told the court that traders frequently slaughter goats and chickens in the open and display carcasses openly at butcher shops, exposing the public to disturbing scenes and serious health risks. The bench strongly objected to these practices and directed the state government and the Ranchi Municipal Corporation to take immediate corrective measures.

Central Food Safety Rules to Remain in Force

The court ordered authorities to strictly implement food safety regulations framed by the Union government. State counsel informed the bench that the government is drafting its own food safety model regulations. The court clarified that until the state finalises its regulations, officials must rigorously enforce the central rules across Jharkhand.

Open Meat Sales Affect Students and the Public

The petitioner also pointed out that vendors routinely cut and sell meat in the open, causing discomfort to pedestrians and students. He said schoolchildren often get off buses only to see meat hanging in public view, which negatively impacts young minds. He further alleged that authorities lack an effective mechanism to monitor the quality and hygiene of meat sold to the public.

Source: Law Trend