Srinagar, Aug 18: More than fifteen days have passed since authorities seized over 12,000 kilograms of decomposed and unlabelled meat from various locations across Kashmir. Despite the scale of the operation, only two individuals have been booked, raising widespread public concern and causing a significant downturn in the local food industry.
The administration initiated the crackdown following repeated tip-offs, which enabled the department to trace the supply chain and conduct targeted raids.
Local restaurant owners reported an 80 per cent decline in business following the scandal, attributing the drop to a lack of visible government action and enforcement at meat markets.
People have expressed frustration over the delay in issuing any official ban or clear guidelines, warning that such inaction could jeopardise public health.
Many even criticised the authorities for not providing the lab testing report.
“The authorities are taking their time, but when people start falling sick, only then will they punish the guilty,” said a resident, wishing anonymity.
Another local said, “More than 15 days have passed, and the lab testing report is still not provided. Is the government waiting for people to fall sick before sharing the results?”
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner, Smita Sethi, earlier said that intensified inspections and coordinated enforcement will continue across the food supply chain to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Notably, the rotten meat scandal has been ongoing for over fifteen days, yet no further arrests or updates have been reported. The incident has sparked debates over food safety regulations in the region and highlighted the need for stricter monitoring of meat suppliers to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The authorities have not provided a timeline for further action, leaving consumers and businesses uncertain.
Meanwhile, public anger continues to mount over the delay in releasing reports and taking decisive action.
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