AN INDORE Municipal Corporation Health Department team, which had gone to seal four butcheries at Azad Nagar, was forced to leave the task incomplete after being attacked and chased away by meat retailers on Friday. The establishments were to be sealed for failing to comply with hygiene norms.
The butchers, however, claimed that it was the Health Department squad’s persistent demands for money that led to the attack. Although no one was injured in the assault, a Corporation van left behind by the fleeing staffers was badly dented after being hit with sticks and rods by the protesting crowd. Acting upon a complaint by the IMC, Sanyogitaganj police have registered a case against five persons for obstructing a public servant from discharging his duties.
According to sources, the incident took place at around 11 am when a Health Department team arrived at Azad Nagar to seal several butcheries. The butcheries had been served notices directing them to keep their premises clean and adhere to food safety norms.
The meat retailers attacked the team while it was on its way back. Alarmed, the IMC staffers fled leaving behind their vehicle, which was attacked by the irate butchers who smashed the van’s glasses and windshield. Sanyogitaganj police have registered a case against Arif, Mohd Nora, Shabbir, Akhtar and Kallu under Sections 353, 332, 186, 427 and 34 of the IPC.
When queried, Chief Health Officer Dr A K Puranik confirmed the incident. He said that the decision to seal the establishments was taken after owners paid no heed to three separate notices asking them to conform to food safety and hygiene standards.
When queried, Chief Health Officer Dr A K Puranik confirmed the incident. He said that the decision to seal the establishments was taken after owners paid no heed to three separate notices asking them to conform to food safety and hygiene standards.