Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Aug 20: Calling for a fact-track probe, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) today demanded that those involved in the rotten meat scandal be publicly named and shamed, and their supply chains disclosed.
A KCCI delegation, led by President Javid Ahmad Tenga, made the demand, along with other recommendations, during a meeting with the Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani.
The meeting was also attended by senior Government officials at the Civil Secretariat here
The delegation deliberated on the fallout of the scandal and its wider economic and social repercussions.
KCCI strongly urged that the Government publicly identify those involved in the trade of rotten meat and reveal their supply chains.
“There is an urgent need for a fast-track investigation into the rotten meat incident, as it has created widespread panic and shaken public confidence in the food supply chain,” the Chamber said.
KCCI demanded swift and transparent action to identify and punish those responsible, ensuring such lapses are not repeated.
The Chamber emphasized that disclosure would allow the public to differentiate between defaulters and genuine businesses, safeguarding honest traders while protecting consumers from further exploitation.
The delegation also conveyed its appreciation to the Government for the prompt and decisive action in exposing the network distributing rotten and substandard meat across the Valley.
At the same time, the delegation highlighted the severe aftershocks of the scandal.
Public confidence in dining out, it said, has collapsed, with restaurants and cafés witnessing nearly an 80 percent decline in customer footfall.
“Hospitality businesses are under serious financial stress, many struggling to sustain operations, and thousands of youth employed in the sector face potential job losses.”
KCCI called for the upgradation of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and stronger support from the Health Department, Srinagar Municipal Corporation and Police for strict enforcement of quality standards.
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