Shillong, Oct 17: The Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO), Ri-Bhoi has filed a complaint at Nongpoh Police Station against the driver of a vehicle allegedly transporting meat without food-safety and source documents.
In a complaint, the organisation said its members were at Narang Petrol Pump around 6 am on Saturday for refuelling when they noticed a silver Eco van bearing registration number AS01GQ 6299 carrying goods covered with tarpaulin.
On enquiry, they reportedly found what appeared to be beef meat being transported from Assam for delivery to Shillong for sale at Ïewduh. The person in charge of the vehicle was identified as Faruk Ahmed.
HITO said transportation and commercial distribution of meat must comply with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and Rules, including licensing, hygienic handling and transport norms.
It requested police to register FIR if cognizable offence is made out, verify source of meat, slaughterhouse or supplier, intended recipient, and availability of food-business licences, invoices, veterinary certificates and other documents.
It also sought examination of whether the vehicle was suitable for meat transportation and whether hygienic conditions and temperature control were maintained, and to inform the Food Safety Officer for inspection, sampling and seizure if required.
The complaint further seeks probe into violation of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and other laws.
HITO clarified the complaint is made in good faith based on observations and does not prejudge guilt, seeking fair investigation in interest of public health and rule of law.
