Yogesh
Jammu, Nov 12: The Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has launched a major drive against vendors selling substandard and unhygienic meat in the city, following similar action in the Kashmir Valley.
Nearly 500 kilograms of substandard frozen meat were seized and destroyed, and fines amounting to Rs 50,000 were imposed on the offenders.
The campaign was carried out by JMC’s veterinary wing under the supervision of Municipal Commissioner Dr. Devesh Yadav and led by Municipal Veterinary Officer Dr. Jaswant Singh. Surprise inspections were conducted across various localities of Jammu city.
During the operation, around 500 kg of unfit meat was seized from several vendors found violating food safety and hygiene norms. The seized meat was destroyed on the spot as per safety protocols to ensure it did not reach the market.
Several shop owners were served notices for lacking valid licenses, failing to maintain hygiene, and selling unstamped meat. Apart from the collective fine of Rs 50,000, a separate penalty of ₹7,000 was imposed on shops found selling unhygienic or unverified meat in violation of the Municipal Corporation Act, 2000.
Dr. Jaswant Singh said that the corporation’s focus remains on ensuring the sale of safe and clean meat to consumers. “Strict action will continue against those engaged in illegal slaughtering and against vendors operating without a No Objection Certificate from the corporation or registration from the Food Safety Department,” he said.
The JMC has appealed to all meat vendors to comply with hygiene, storage, and licensing regulations. Citizens have been urged to report violations to the corporation for prompt action.
Officials said that similar drives will continue across Jammu to curb the sale of unsafe meat and ensure public health standards are maintained.
