'Muslims should consider that ...': Varanasi shuts meat shops for Navratri even as Eid nears

Navratri

The Varanasi Municipal Corporation has, for the first time, ordered the closure of all meat and fish shops within city limits during the Navratri festival. This decision was unanimously approved during the civic body’s executive meeting.

Notably, Eid coincides with the Navratri festival this year and is likely to be celebrated on Monday.

“This is the first time a decision has been taken to keep all meat and fish shops closed during Navratri, starting March 30. Officials have been directed to enforce the order and shop owners were informed about the decision taken in the executive meeting,” said Varanasi Mayor Ashok Tiwari.

““They (Muslims) should consider that their Hindu brothers find Navratri the most sacred. So, at least for nine days, let it be. Is anyone stopping them for 360 days?” he was quoted in a TOI report.

“Since the proposal of the closure of meat shops during Navratri was passed in the executive, it would be implemented strictly,” Tiwari said.

Tiwari said in Thursday’s meeting of the Municipal Corporation’s executive council, a member proposed a complete closure of meat and fish shops during Navratri. There are around 400-500 meat and fish shops operating within the city limits.

The prohibition on the meat and liquor shops near the temple was proposed by corporator of the Adivishveshwar, Indresh Kumar Singh, under Section 91 (2) of the Municipal Corporation Act 1959.