Srinagar, Mar 14: The Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Court in Handwara has directed an investigation into alleged unhygienic practices by meat and cheese vendors in Handwara and adjoining areas.
The order, issued on March 12, 2025, came in response to a complaint filed by Advocate Mir Imran, who accused vendors of openly displaying uncovered meat and cheese, posing severe public health risks.
Local residents have welcomed the decision, with Aarif Bhat, a Handwara resident, stating, “We have been complaining about these unhygienic practices for months. This court order is a relief for all of us who care about public health.”
In his complaint, Imran highlighted that vendors were violating food safety laws by exposing products to dust, flies, and contaminants, creating breeding grounds for bacteria and zoonotic diseases. Despite repeated public requests, the Food Safety Officer, Municipal Committee Handwara, and Executive Magistrates failed to act, prompting the legal action.
The court noted that such practices attract stray animals and vectors, exacerbating health hazards and environmental nuisances.
CJM Manzoor Hussain cited violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006, Environment Protection Act 1986, and Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Corporation Act 2000. While acknowledging the court’s jurisdiction under BNSS provisions, the judge postponed formal proceedings under Section 225 of BNSS, pending a factual inquiry.
Senior Superintendents of Police in Handwara and Kupwara were instructed to investigate the allegations and submit detailed reports by the next hearing on March 20, 2025.
The court emphasized the statutory duty of magistrates to ensure hygiene and remove public nuisances, stressing that inaction compelled the complainant to seek judicial intervention.
Public health experts also lauded the move , a local health official remarked, “This intervention was necessary to enforce food safety standards. We hope the authorities now take swift action to prevent outbreaks.”
