By The Sampadak Express
In preparation for the upcoming nine-day Chaitra Navratri festival, the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government has directed the closure of illegal slaughterhouses and imposed a ban on the sale of meat within a 500-meter radius of religious places. The announcement comes as authorities seek to maintain peace and harmony during the religious observances.
Additionally, special restrictions will be enforced for Ram Navami on April 6, when all animal slaughter and meat sales will be entirely prohibited, in line with religious sentiments.
Amrit Abhijat, Principal Secretary of the Urban Development Department, has issued instructions to all District Magistrates, Police Commissioners, and Municipal Commissioners to take immediate action, closing down illegal slaughterhouses and strictly enforcing the meat sale ban near religious sites.
Citing earlier directives issued in 2014 and 2017, the state government emphasized that the sale of meat and illegal animal slaughter near religious locations is strictly prohibited. To ensure effective implementation, district-level committees have been formed under the leadership of district magistrates, comprising officials from various departments such as police, pollution control, animal husbandry, transport, health, and food safety.
Under the provisions of the Uttar Pradesh Municipal Corporation Act of 1959 and the Food Safety Acts of 2006 and 2011, the government has authorized stringent punitive measures against violators.
The Navratri festival, dedicated to Goddess Durga, begins on Sunday, March 30. The state’s efforts aim to create a respectful atmosphere for the large number of Hindu devotees observing fasting and worship during this period.
Shiv Sena Leader Urges Mumbai Authorities to Close Roadside Meat Stalls for Navratri
In Mumbai, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam has called for the closure of roadside meat, fish, and mutton stalls in honor of religious sentiments during the Navratri festival. Speaking after meeting with Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Sachin Gunjalay, Nirupam stressed that while restaurants may continue serving non-vegetarian food, open stalls selling non-veg items should be shut during the nine-day religious observance.
Nirupam highlighted that the presence of shawarma and other non-vegetarian stalls on the streets during Navratri is disrespecting the sentiments of Hindu devotees who fast and worship during the festival. He urged local authorities to act accordingly and support the festival’s sanctity.
Both developments reflect a growing emphasis on respecting religious practices and ensuring that public spaces align with the observances of different communities during significant festivals.
