Four meat vendors booked in Anantnag for hanging meat in open air: Police

October 21, 2025 by News Desk

Suhail Dar

Four meat sellers from the Achabal Adda area of main town Anantnag were booked by the Anantnag Police on Tuesday for allegedly violating recent government orders on meat storage and sale.

According to the police, the vendors were specifically charged under FIR numbers 210/2025 and 211/2025 for keeping meat in the open air, a practice considered unsafe and unhygienic.

“During checking, four butchers were found keeping meat hanging outside their shops for sale, thereby making it unsafe for human consumption and posing a risk of infection and health hazards to customers,” an official told The Kashmiriyat.

The action is part of a broader enforcement drive to ensure food safety in local markets and prevent the sale of contaminated or rotten meat.

Earlier inspections across Jammu Kashmir had already targeted unsafe meat practices and unlicensed dealers, and authorities have indicated that regular follow-up inspections will continue.

Local residents and shopkeepers in Achabal Adda welcomed the police intervention. One resident said, “We are relieved the police acted, open-air meat sells risk our families’ health. We want regular inspections and clear rules so honest shopkeepers are safe too.” Another shopper added, “This crackdown is overdue. Market hygiene affects everyone; authorities should also help vendors with training and cold-storage options.”

Anantnag Police reminded all food business operators to adhere strictly to government orders and food safety guidelines. A local resident said, “We thank the Anantnag Police for stepping in. Please keep these checks regular so unsafe meat doesn’t reach our plates.”

Authorities warned that further action would be taken against repeat violators to safeguard the community and maintain hygiene standards in the market.