Food Manifest 
Key Update
Meghalaya authorities have banned the transportation, storage, and sale of illegal fish imports from Bangladesh in East Khasi Hills and South West Khasi Hills districts, citing risks to public health and biosecurity.
District Administrations Issue Prohibitory Orders
The East Khasi Hills administration issued a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, restricting the movement and sale of fish brought in without valid legal documents. The South West Khasi Hills district administration issued a similar order through its Deputy Commissioner. Officials said unregulated fish consignments have been entering Meghalaya through porous border routes, riverine channels, roads, and market points. Such imports violate customs, import-export, and food safety regulations.
Health and Biosecurity Risks Highlighted
The district orders warn that uncertified foreign-origin fish could introduce diseased or restricted species, threaten public health and sanitation, disrupt local aquatic ecosystems, and cause economic losses to legitimate traders. The orders prohibit the use of vehicles, boats, or any conveyance to facilitate illegal fish trade and bar individuals from assisting or harbouring offenders. Authorities said violators will face action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, along with relevant provisions of the Customs Act, the Foreigners Act, and the Passport Act.
Ban Comes into Immediate Effect
The district administrations confirmed that the prohibitory orders have taken immediate effect and will remain in force until further notice.
Source: Hindustan Times
