Butcher Shop Sealed in Khrew Pampore Over Rat Infestation; Food Safety Violations Found

Bilal Habib

PAMPORE, January 11: Authorities have taken swift action after a viral video surfaced showing a rat infestation at a butcher shop in the Khrew area of Pampore Tehsil, South Kashmir’s Pulwama district.

Acting on the matter, the Assistant Commissioner Intelligence-cum-Legal Cell Kashmir, who also holds additional charge as Assistant Commissioner Food Safety Pulwama Hilal Ahmad Mir, along with the concerned Food Safety Officer Sadiya Javaid, inspected the shop and discovered it in extremely unhygienic conditions. The shop was immediately sealed, and further investigations have been initiated.

They also conducted a special inspection drive against the food business operators, including butchers, bakers, and restaurants, were inspected in the Khrew town. Violations of sanitary and hygienic standards under the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act were found at six establishments. A fine of Rs 6,000 was imposed on the violators, officials told Kashmir Convvinor. Authorities emphasized the importance of maintaining hygiene and warned of strict action against those flouting food safety norms.

Earlier, a video viral on social media shows rats eating meat at a butcher shop in the Khrew area of Pampore.

Assistant Commissioner Intelligence-cum-Legal Cell Kashmir, Hilal Ahmad Mir, while taking to Kashmir Convenor, stated that a complaint was received regarding a butcher shop in Khrew, Pampore, where meat was being stored in unsanitary conditions, allowing the presence of rats (rodents). “As soon as we received the complaint, the department immediately swung into action and visited the site. We have sealed the meat shop as proper sanitation was not maintained, and there was evidence of rats in the premises,” he said.

We also conducted a drive against other shops in the area, including chicken sellers, bakers, and restaurants. We found violations of the Food Safety Act and took action against those responsible. A fine of six thousand rupees was collected from the violators, and complaints against some will be presented in court for further legal action.

I appeal to the general public that just as we received this complaint, if similar complaints continue to come to us, we will take immediate action against the violators. This is a continuous process, but I urge the people to contact us whenever they notice any issues related to food items. Your cooperation is essential in ensuring food safety and hygiene.

He further told Kashmir Convener that all food items should be stored at the proper temperature, ensuring that the environment is free from rodents and flies. Food items must be kept in a safe and hygienic environment. Every business operator is required to have a license or registration. Licenses are issued to those with a turnover exceeding Rs 12 lakh, while those with a turnover below Rs 12 lakh are provided with registration.

He mentioned that during field inspections, it was observed that some operators lack the necessary food licenses or registrations. Such operators are being warned, and if they fail to comply, legal action will be taken against them. Additionally, if proper sanitation is not maintained, strict action will be taken against the shopkeepers involved.

He emphasized that the department does not merely impose fines but also provides awareness to business operators. Furthermore, appreciation certificates are awarded to those who comply with the Food Safety Act and maintain high standards of hygiene and safety.