Abattoir mystery: SIT likely to send ‘meat’ for DNA test

Bhopal: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted to probe the seizure of suspected banned meat linked to the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC)-run Jinsi slaughterhouse is weighing the option of sending the seized samples for DNA analysis—considered the most definitive test.The investigators are intensifying scrutiny of CCTV footage and examine possible gaps in the slaughterhouse's operating process, sources told TOI.12 BMC staff, including a veterinary doctor, were suspended following protests in the case. According to sources, veterinary experts associated with the BMC informed the SIT that their role was limited to conducting animal autopsies and that they were not involved in post-autopsy processes such as packaging or storage. This prompted investigators to examine whether any irregularities or manipulation occurred between the autopsy stage and the final packing of the meat.SIT sources said investigators are now focusing on reconstructing the entire chain—from the sourcing of animals to slaughter, post-mortem, packaging, and transportation. DVRs containing CCTV footage from the slaughterhouse and nearby locations were seized and are being analysed to ascertain whether cows were brought into the facility, or whether slaughter took place elsewhere and the meat was later brought in for packaging. The case surfaced on December 17, when members of a right-wing organisation intercepted a container truck near the Police Headquarters in the Jehangirabad area, alleging that it was carrying prohibited meat for supply outside the state and possibly abroad. The container was found loaded with around 26.5 tonnes of meat. Police seized the vehicle and the consignment, and samples were sent to the forensic laboratory at the Veterinary College in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. The forensic report, received on January 7, indicated that the meat was of a cow or its progeny, which is prohibited under law.Following the report, the civic body sealed the Jehangirabad (Jinsi) slaughterhouse, and Jehangirabad police registered a case under relevant provisions of the Madhya Pradesh Cow Slaughter Prohibition Act, 2004, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against the slaughterhouse operator Aslam Qureshi, the truck driver Shoaib, and others. Aslam and Shoaib were arrested. On January 19, Bhopal Police Commissioner Harinarayanchari Mishra constituted an SIT, headed by ACP Umesh Tiwari, to conduct a comprehensive probe.2 accused, including Aslam Qureshi and truck driver Shoaib, are currently in judicial custody, and SIT sources said more individuals could be named if evidence points to wider involvement. Investigators may also seek custodial remand of the accused if required. Police officials said further action will depend on technical and forensic findings as the investigation progresses, and no conclusions are being drawn at this stage.