CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL MEAT AND FISH SHOPS

CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL MEAT AND FISH SHOPS

23-FEB-ENG 1

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

PATNA---------------------------The state's Urban Development and Housing Department has taken a major step towards strengthening cleanliness, health, and law and order in urban areas. Vinay Kumar, Principal Secretary of the department, has issued an important directive to the Municipal Commissioners of all municipal corporations and the executive officers of all municipal councils and nagar panchayats in the state. This letter orders the immediate closure of illegal meat and fish shops operating under municipal bodies and ensures strict compliance with the rules.

The state government has come to the notice of numerous meat and fish shops operating in various municipal bodies that violate the provisions of Section 345 of the Bihar Municipal Act, 2007. Investigations revealed that most of the shops either operate without a valid license or are not complying with the conditions of the licenses.

Considering the gravity of the current situation, the department has found that meat is being sold openly and in extremely unsanitary conditions at many locations. Furthermore, dead animals are being publicly displayed in shops, which not only violates hygiene standards but also poses a threat to the health of the general public. It has been particularly observed that such shops are located near religious sites, educational institutions, and highly crowded public places, adversely affecting public sentiment and smooth traffic flow.

In light of these adverse circumstances, the Principal Secretary has issued clear instructions to all concerned officials. According to the order, only those shops that obtain valid licenses with appropriate conditions prescribed by the department will be allowed to operate. Additionally, under Section 345 (4) of the Bihar Municipal Act, 2007, the department has been directed to identify and immediately close all illegal shops operating without licenses.