In a decisive step to protect public health, biosecurity, and the local economy, the District Magistrate of East Khasi Hills has imposed an immediate ban on the transportation, storage, sale, and distribution of fish illegally imported from Bangladesh within the district.
Issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the prohibitory order bars the movement, stocking, marketing, or distribution of such fish without valid legal documentation. It also prohibits the use of any vehicle, vessel, boat, or other conveyance for these activities and forbids assisting, harboring, or facilitating individuals or groups involved in the illegal trade.
The order follows reports of large-scale smuggling of fish from Bangladesh through border routes, riverine channels, roads, and market points. Authorities cited serious risks, including violations of Customs, Import-Export, and Food Safety laws; the possible introduction of diseased or restricted aquatic species into local ecosystems; threats to public health and sanitation; bio-security concerns; and economic losses to legitimate traders and the state exchequer.
Officials warned that violators would face strict action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with provisions of the Customs Act, Foreigners Act, Passport Act, and other applicable laws.
The move comes close on the heels of a similar prohibitory order issued on January 14 by the District Magistrate of Eastern West Khasi Hills, which also raised concerns over illegal migration and cross-border smuggling through porous borders, posing risks to national security, public order, health, and economic interests.
Meanwhile, the Commissionerate of Food Safety, Meghalaya, has reassured the public that fish imported from Assam and sold in markets across the state are safe for consumption following detailed laboratory analysis.
The clarification comes amid public concern triggered by social media posts and a recent report highlighting unsafe lead levels in some fish sold in Guwahati markets.
Deputy Commissioner (Food Safety)–Enforcement D.B.S. Mukhim said 45 fish samples collected from various districts of Meghalaya were tested at the Edward Food Research & Analysis Centre Limited in Kolkata. Test reports received on Saturday confirmed that all samples complied with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) norms, with no detectable heavy metals.
He said the samples were collected as per FSSAI protocols and that the department regularly conducts spot inspections under its ‘Food Safety on Wheels’ initiative, including preliminary testing in markets. Mukhim added that no formalin has been detected during routine checks.
The Commissionerate plans to share the findings with authorities in Assam and explore joint measures to strengthen food safety safeguards. Fish vendors have been urged to register with the Commissionerate, either at the office or during inspections, as selling without a valid licence is punishable under the law. Consumers were also advised to wash fish thoroughly before cooking.
