SRINAGAR: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, V.K. Bidhuri, on Wednesday said that the recent seizures of rotten meat in the Valley are unlikely to be the result of a single day’s lapse and are more plausibly linked to a prevailing demand-supply gap.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the full-dress rehearsal for Independence Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar, Bidhuri said the Chief Minister has already convened a meeting on the issue and directed concerned departments to take strict action.
He urged the public to remain vigilant, stressing that such incidents are not limited to meat alone. “This is not only about meat—similar issues can arise with milk and other food products. We all need to pay attention because it is a serious matter,” he cautioned.
His remarks come as authorities probe the seizure of over 11,000 kilograms of rotten meat from different parts of the Valley. Officials are also investigating reports that the seized meat may have been treated with formaldehyde, a toxic chemical commonly used to preserve dead bodies, although laboratory test results are still awaited.
Meanwhile, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has intensified inspections and is collecting samples from various locations across Kashmir to ensure the safety of food products and protect public health. -(KO)
