Srinagar, Aug 10 — The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I) has expressed grave concern over the growing menace of sub-standard and rotten meat being sold across the Valley, terming it a direct threat to public health and a serious breach of consumer trust.
The reaction comes in the wake of the recent seizure of 1,200 kilograms of rotten meat in Zakura, following which the Chamber intervened with authorities to ensure an FIR was lodged at Zakura Police Station against those involved.
KCC&I noted that this was not an isolated incident, citing multiple recoveries of rotten meat, stale fish, and low-cost dressed chicken unfit for consumption across Kashmir. In many cases, colouring agents — some known to be carcinogenic — had allegedly been used to make the products appear fresh.
The Chamber also voiced concern over the lack of certification to confirm whether meat sold in local markets is halal, warning that this absence of verification raises religious, ethical, and quality concerns.
Adding to the problem, KCC&I said, is the influx of uncertified, low-cost dressed chicken from outside the Valley, which not only poses safety risks but also causes financial harm to local poultry farmers.
The trade body has demanded an immediate ban on such imports and called for “stringent, deterrent, and exemplary punishment” for offenders. It urged authorities to take uncompromising action, stressing that public safety, health, and trust must be prioritised above all else.
