HMA Agro Industries in Aligarh, one of the largest exporters of buffalo meat, figures on the list approved by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Exports Development Authority (APEDA). Why then is it under a near complete lockout? After all, the crackdown by the new UP government — which is following up on an election promise — is meant to be on illegal abattoirs.

Prashant Sharma, chief general manager of the unit, points to the fear factor. “Farmers are scared not just of  the police but also the rogue elements. None of them is willing to bring their animals here.” He narrates how a vehicle on its way to the plant carrying eight buffaloes was allegedly intercepted by a group of goons who set the live animals on fire.................Read more

Source: The Economic Times