The Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) in Maharashtra’s Thane district has mandated the closure of all meat shops and slaughterhouses on Independence Day, August 15, 2025, triggering a fierce backlash from NCP (SP) MLA Jitendra Awhad, who vowed to host a “mutton party” in defiance. The directive, issued on August 4, orders all licensed butchers and shops selling chicken, mutton, fish, and large animals to remain shut from midnight on August 14 to midnight on August 15, citing long-standing administrative resolutions to maintain public order during national occasions.

KDMC’s notice, signed by Deputy Commissioner (Licensing) Kanchan Gaikwad, warns of strict action under Sections 334, 336, and 374(A) of the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act, 1949, for violations. The civic body justified the move as part of a tradition to close meat shops on six major occasions, including Mahavir Jayanti, Gandhi Jayanti, and Ganesh Chaturthi, to uphold “national pride and discipline.”

Awhad, representing Mumbra-Kalwa, slammed the order as an assault on personal freedom. “On the day we won freedom, you’re curbing our right to eat what we want. Who are you to dictate our diet?” he told PTI, announcing plans to host a mutton party on August 15 to protest the ban. In a fiery post on X, he added, “This is too much. Is this your father’s rule?” arguing that the move disrespects the dietary choices of the Bahujan community, many of whom are non-vegetarian.

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The decision has polarized opinions. Some residents praised KDMC, calling it a patriotic gesture, while others, including traders, expressed frustration. “Friday is a peak day for meat sales. This ban disrupts our livelihood,” said a Kalyan butcher, noting that many customers plan festive meals on Independence Day. Social media reactions were mixed, with one user questioning, “What does meat have to do with patriotism?” while another suggested KDMC focus on fixing potholes instead.

The controversy highlights broader tensions over cultural imposition in Maharashtra, where similar bans during festivals like Ram Navami have sparked debates. Awhad’s defiance, backed by NCP (SP) supporters, sets the stage for a high-profile protest, challenging KDMC’s authority and reigniting discussions on individual rights versus civic mandates.

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