Handwara, Sept 10: Police in Handwara, along with the Food Safety Officer and an Executive Magistrate, carried out a large-scale market checking drive on Wednesday to ensure quality food supplies and protect public health. During the operation, three FIRs were registered against food outlets found violating hygiene and safety norms.
The drive covered various areas under Police District Handwara, including meat shops, kiryana stores, hotels, restaurants, and other food vending outlets.
Officials said the inspection focused on hygiene, sanitation, and display of approved rate lists. Food items were also checked for expiry dates and authenticity. Shopkeepers were strictly directed to maintain cleanliness, avoid overpricing, and comply with food safety standards.
During the checks, violations were detected at several outlets. Accordingly, FIR No. 206/2025 was registered at PS Handwara, FIR No. 35/2025 at PS Qalamabad, and FIR No. 54/2025 at PS Villgam.
Locals welcomed the move, calling it an important step toward consumer safety. “These drives are necessary. Many shopkeepers sell rotten vegetables and stale meat without fear of action. Today’s inspection has sent a strong message,” said Bashir Ahmad, a resident of Handwara town.
Others said the initiative should be widened. “We appreciate this step, but rotten items are still being sold in many markets. Authorities must also focus on milk, cheese, and other dairy products where adulteration is common,” said Gulzar Dar of Langate.
Residents said such checks must become routine, not occasional, if malpractices are to be curbed. “Only regular inspections will ensure fair prices and safe food for consumers,” another local added.
Police, in a statement, said the initiative will continue in the coming days and urged people to report any malpractice. “Our aim is to safeguard public health and consumer rights. Strict action will follow wherever violations are found,” the statement said.
The crackdown has raised hopes that consistent enforcement will improve market standards across Handwara.
