From Our Correspondent
TURA, June 6: Citing a “slow poison” threat from chemically treated produce and livestock arriving from Assam, the Achik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF) has demanded that the Meghalaya government stop all food imports at the border until they are certified safe by state-run laboratories.
In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, the group raised alarms over reports of artificial chemicals found in vegetables and fruits in Barpeta and Guwahati. They warned that because Garo Hills relies almost entirely on Assam for essentials—including broiler chickens, cattle, and fresh produce—the lack of oversight poses a severe risk to public health.
“We urge the state government to prioritise safety and implement strict measures for all goods entering Garo Hills from Assam until a safe consumption certificate is issued by the Government of Meghalaya,” said ASPF general secretary Bernita Marak.
This is the third time the organisation has petitioned the government on the matter. The ASPF noted that two previous memorandums were ignored, with no action taken to secure the region’s food supply chain.
The group’s recommendations include the immediate deployment of Food Safety and Veterinary officials at key entry points, specifically Bajengdoba (NH 217), Dainadubi, and the AMPT road. They are also calling for regular inspections of weekly and daily markets and the establishment of a dedicated food testing laboratory in every district of Garo Hills to prevent the entry of unverified or contaminated products.
