Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has strongly criticized decisions by some civic bodies to ban meat sales and slaughterhouse operations on August 15, calling such measures inappropriate for a national holiday like Independence Day. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Pawar argued that imposing restrictions typically associated with religious festivals, such as Ashadhi Ekadashi, Mahashivratri, or Mahavir Jayanti, is misguided when applied to secular occasions like Independence Day, Maharashtra Day, or Republic Day.

“People in Maharashtra eat both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. In major cities, diverse communities coexist. Such bans may be accepted for a day if tied to emotional or religious sentiments, but enforcing them on national holidays is wrong and difficult to justify,” Pawar said. His remarks follow the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation’s announcement to close slaughterhouses and meat shops on August 15, coinciding with Gokul Ashtami, a Hindu festival celebrating Lord Krishna’s birth, and August 20, marking the Jain festival Paryushan Parva.

The civic body’s order prohibits animal slaughter and meat sales on these days, threatening penalties for violations. Similar directives have emerged from the Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) in Thane and reportedly the Malegaon Municipal Corporation. These decisions have sparked backlash from opposition leaders.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray demanded the suspension of the KDMC commissioner, asserting that dietary choices should not be dictated by civic authorities. “What we eat on Independence Day is our decision. The commissioner should focus on fixing potholes instead,” Thackeray said, vowing to consume non-vegetarian food in defiance.

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NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad also announced plans to eat non-vegetarian food as a protest against the KDMC’s ban, emphasizing personal freedom in dietary choices. The controversy highlights a broader debate over balancing cultural sensitivities with individual rights, especially during national celebrations. Pawar urged civic bodies to reconsider such orders, advocating for inclusivity in a state known for its diverse population and culinary traditions.

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