Tura, Jan 21: A Garo group has urged the State Commissioner of Food Safety to conduct strict and statewide inspections of food items entering the state, citing growing public concern over food safety and quality.
In a formal representation submitted on Tuesday, the A·chik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF), Garobadha Regional Unit, expressed apprehension over essential food items such as onions, potatoes and other vegetables being imported into Meghalaya from outside the state without adequate inspection and monitoring.
The ASPF stated that a large section of the population depends on these supplies for daily consumption and warned that insufficient regulation could allow contaminated, spoiled or chemically treated produce to circulate in markets, posing risks of food poisoning and other health hazards.
The organisation called upon the authorities to strengthen inspection and quality control mechanisms at all entry points into the state, including interstate check gates, wholesale markets and storage facilities. It also stressed the need for regular testing, proper documentation and strict enforcement of food safety standards to ensure consumer protection.
Emphasising the importance of proactive governance, the ASPF said transparent and timely action by the authorities would help safeguard public health and restore public confidence across Meghalaya.
