Tripura HC orders strict monthly crackdown on illegal meat sellers

By  Firstdespatch Desk   Apr 16, 2026

Agartala, Apr 16 (FD) The Tripura High Court has issued strict directions to authorities in Agartala to submit monthly crackdown reports on illegal meat sellers and unauthorised slaughterhouses, calling the situation “serious” amid continued delays in establishing a modern abattoir.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice M. S. Ramachandra Rao and Justice Biswajit Palit passed the order while hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by advocates Ankan Tilak Paul and Paramita Sen. The petition raised concerns over the delay in implementing a court-mandated slaughterhouse in Agartala.

The court directed the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), West Tripura, to coordinate with the Agartala Municipal Corporation and submit monthly reports detailing illegal operations and enforcement measures taken. It emphasized the need for strict monitoring and timely action against violators.

Expressing dissatisfaction, the bench noted that although a work order for the project was issued in June 2025, the site was handed over only in February 2026, with no clear completion deadline. The court reiterated that the directive to establish a modern slaughterhouse dates back to February 2022, highlighting prolonged administrative delays.

The bench also acknowledged reports of ongoing illegal meat-selling activities in areas like Abhoynagar and Bhagaban Thakur Chowmuhani, pointing to weak enforcement mechanisms. Authorities have been instructed to ensure hygiene standards and proper waste disposal in coordination with the Tripura State Pollution Control Board.

Additionally, the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police of West Tripura have been asked to extend full cooperation in enforcing the court’s directives. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on June 16, with authorities required to present detailed action reports. FD SB