Several MLAs in Jammu & Kashmir have urged for stronger action, including property attachment, against those involved in the rotten meat trade. National Conference MLAs highlighted health concerns linked to consuming such food, connecting it to rising cases of diseases like cancer. The legislators emphasized the need for strict enforcement and preventive measures to curb the sale of adulterated and rotten meat.
The lawmakers called for the identification and property attachment of individuals engaged in the illegal trade of spoiled meat to deter such practices. They also proposed the establishment of slaughterhouses in Municipal Committees to address the issue effectively. Additionally, there were discussions on enhancing manpower and enforcement mechanisms to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
Health Minister Sakina Itoo acknowledged the shortage of staff in the department, emphasizing the critical nature of addressing this deficiency promptly. She mentioned ongoing recruitment processes to fill vacant positions, underlining the importance of public health in dealing with food safety issues. The Minister clarified the powers of Food Safety Officers under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, stating that while they can take various actions, including launching prosecutions, only the police can make arrests as per legal provisions.
Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather intervened, suggesting the need for amending the existing Act to incorporate stronger provisions if necessary. NC’s Tanvir Sadiq proposed amendments and the formation of a dedicated task force to handle such cases, emphasizing the importance of effective control over law enforcement agencies in addressing food safety concerns.
In a written response, the government disclosed significant seizures of rotten and unsafe meat and chicken across the Union Territory, emphasizing the scale of the issue. The data revealed the extent of the problem, with detailed district-wise breakdowns of the seized meat and chicken, highlighting the magnitude of the challenge faced in ensuring food safety standards. The government also shared information on the inspection and testing processes conducted to address food safety concerns, including the status of Food Testing Laboratories in the region.
