Shillong, Feb 2:The in charge District Magistrate, East Khasi Hills has banned the transportation, storage, sale or distribution of fish illegally imported from Bangladesh.
The prohibitory order passed under Section 163 BNSS said that illegal transportation of fish from Bangladesh is taking place through various border routes, riverine channels, roads, and market points within the state and such illegal items may enter the district through various channels.
Such illegal transportation and entry of unregulated fish is a violation of Customs, Import-Export, and other relevant Food Safety regulations including the potential of introducing diseased or restricted species.
The order also states that such illegal, unchecked and uncertified sale and distribution of these foreign-origin fish pose a serious risk to public health and sanitation, negatively impact the bio-security of local aquatic ecosystem and cause economic loss to legitimate fish traders and the State government.
Individuals harbouring or facilitating individuals or groups involved in such illegal activities shall be prosecuted under the relevant Sections of the Law as per under Section 223 BNSS Act, 2023 and other Provision of law including BNS, Custom Act, Foreign Act, Passport Act and others.
