Fishes unite parties in Asom Assembly

Guwahati, Mar 14 (UNI) The urgent need to ensure that fish which come to Asom from other states are fit for consumption saw the political parties unite in the Assembly today, with the Speaker directing the Fishery department to look into the matter.

The issue of quality check of fish brought into the state from outside was raised during the Question Hour by Independent legislator Pranab Kalita. He pointed out that reports claimed that chemical and artificial drugs were used to keep stale fishes fresh in appearance, which was extremely hazardous to health.

Replying to the question, Fisheries Minister Nurjamal Sarkar said while it took about three days for fish brought by trucks to reach the state, the department had no machinery to check the quality of the fishes before being let out in the market.

He said the department was contemplating setting up such a cell, adding that quality check and control would also require coordination of Food, Health and other related departments.

In view of the serious health hazard lack of quality control could lead to, Speaker T B Rai directed Mr Sarkar to monitor and discuss the issue of quality check with other related departments and ensure positive measures at the earliest.

The Opposition parties, welcoming the Speaker's instruction, also urged the revival of state-owned fisheries and encouragement of local production.

UNI