The Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Manzoor Hussain in Handwara has ordered an immediate investigation into the alleged unhygienic sale of uncovered meat and cheese in public markets, following a complaint filed by Advocate Mir Imran.
The court also issued notices to the Food Safety Officer, Executive Officer of the Municipal Committee Handwara, and all Executive Magistrates of Kupwara district, demanding explanations for their failure to enforce health regulations.
Advocate Mir Imran, approached the court alleging that vendors in Handwara and adjoining areas openly display and sell uncovered meat and cheese, exposing these items to dust, flies, and contaminants. The complaint highlighted violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act (2006), Environment Protection Act (1986), and Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Corporation Act (2000), citing risks of bacterial infections, zoonotic diseases, and public health hazards.
CJM Manzoor Hussain noted that the unhygienic practices—such as hanging raw meat in open spaces—attract stray animals and disease vectors, creating a “serious public health hazard.”
The court referenced Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 and Section 210 of the BNSS, emphasizing the statutory duty of authorities to curb such nuisances.
Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) of Handwara and Kupwara were directed to investigate the allegations and submit a detailed report by March 20, 2025.
The Food Safety Officer, Municipal Committee’s Executive Officer, and all Executive Magistrates of Kupwara must explain their inaction and submit replies through District Magistrate Kupwara.
District Magistrate Kupwara was instructed to ensure subordinate magistrates address the public nuisance promptly.
The case will be heard next on March 20, 2025, for compliance updates.
“The open display of raw meat is a direct cause of foodborne diseases and violates statutory duties. Authorities must act in public interest,” stated CJM Manzoor Hussain in the order. (KNS)
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