The Bihar government has announced a new policy to ban the open sale of meat and fish in public spaces across the state, a move officials say is aimed at improving public health, sanitation and respect for community sentiments. The decision was made public on February 16, 2026, during the Bihar Legislative Council’s budget session when Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha outlined the proposed restrictions.

Under the new rules, selling meat or fish openly on streets, sidewalks or in open markets will no longer be permitted anywhere in the state’s urban areas. Only vendors who hold a valid licence issued by the appropriate municipal or local authority will be allowed to sell these products — and even then, sales must take place in designated or authorised spaces rather than in the open.

Officials have emphasised that enforcement of the ban will be strict, with authorities instructed to take action against unlicensed vendors operating outside the new guidelines. The deputy chief minister said that the regulations are being framed to ensure compliance and to address concerns about hygiene, sanitation and respect for individuals’ beliefs.

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The announcement follows earlier directives aimed at restricting meat sales near religious sites, a provision already in effect in Bihar and in neighbouring states such as Uttar Pradesh. The new statewide ban on open selling goes beyond those limits, extending prohibition to all public thoroughfares.

The policy has sparked discussion among local traders, residents and political observers. Supporters of the move argue that regulating meat and fish sales will result in cleaner markets, better food safety and reduced nuisance in densely populated areas. However, some small vendors have raised concerns about how they will meet licensing requirements, which could affect their livelihoods if the process is not streamlined.

The Bihar government has instructed all district authorities and municipal bodies to implement the new policy swiftly and ensure awareness among affected sellers. Officials say they will monitor compliance and provide guidance on licensing procedures to help vendors transition into the regulated system without undue hardship.

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