Meat sample sent for testing following beef allegation at Odisha hotel

An online video allegedly suggesting the sale of beef at ‘Jaya Hotel’ in Satyabadi prompted local police to send the meat sample on Monday for examination at the state laboratory in the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) in Bhubaneswar.

Also Read: Hotel 'serving' beef as mutton in Satyabadi; section 163 clamped within 1 km radius of eatery

However, the chemical test report is yet to be submitted to the probe team.

Steps taken by the district administration

Amid growing public unease, local officials have sealed the roadside eatery and declared a one-kilometre prohibition zone around its vicinity, citing Section 163 of the BNS. Puri district administration, acknowledging the delicate nature of the issue, is ensuring independent monitoring of the procedures, a senior official informed.

Separately, a meat sample has also been taken from a vendor in Satyabadi and Puri town, following claims associated with the viral video.

An individual injured in the altercation is currently receiving medical care and is reported to be in a stable condition.

The Puri Superintendent of Police (SP) confirmed that the probe is going on, and action will be taken based on the findings.

“As a precautionary measure, we have sealed the hotel. Section 163 of the BNS has been imposed in the vicinity to maintain law and order. A detailed probe is underway based on the available information,” Puri Collector Siddharth Shankar Swain said.

“Food safety officials and multi-disciplinary squads are regularly conducting raids on various locations. Those who will be found guilty would be punished. No one should create panic, but try to avoid the situation through heightened vigilance,” Puri Collector stated.

Must Read: Odisha govt to ban cow slaughter, illegal transportation!

“After a video became viral, the police and district administrations are keeping a strict vigil on the situation. We appeal to all not to believe in rumours, rather support the authorities,” Puri SP Vinit Agrawal expressed while briefing to mediapersons.