Key Development

Authorities in Kashmir seized over 3,000 kilograms of rotten meat in just seven days, sparking fear and outrage across the Valley. Enforcement teams raided locations in Ganderbal, Pulwama, and Srinagar, finding meat stored without temperature control, missing labels, and unfit for human consumption. On July 31, the Food Safety Department and Drug and Food Control Organisation (DFCO) raided an industrial estate in Zakura, Srinagar, and seized 1,200 kilograms of rotten meat. Officials suspect traders planned to supply the meat to restaurants, street stalls, and small eateries. Police have registered FIRs against those involved.

Unsafe Meat Found in Public Areas

Inspectors recovered large quantities of decomposing meat dumped on marshy land in Nowgam, as well as on roadsides, nallahs, and rivers. Officials believe heightened surveillance has forced unscrupulous traders to dump spoiled stock in public areas to avoid detection. The crackdown also uncovered other violations: in Srinagar, teams seized 2,500 kebabs made from frozen meat laced with banned colouring agents and confiscated 150 kilograms of Gushtaba for spoilage concerns.

Public Health Alarm and Legal Action

Medical experts warn that unhygienic slaughtering, handling, and storage of meat can trigger severe illnesses, including food poisoning, typhoid, and dysentery. The Food Safety Department vowed to prosecute offenders and enforce full compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act. Civil society groups and the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) demanded regular inspections, strict accountability, and tighter checks on meat entering the Valley. Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Satish Sharma ordered enforcement teams to intensify raids, conduct surprise inspections, and take decisive action to stamp out the adulterated meat trade.

Source: The New Indian Express