Meat sale banned in Mumbai for 4 days, sparks controversy

After beef ban in Maharashtra, sale of meat has been prohibited for four days in Mumbai following a demand from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), sparking a row with ally Shiv Sena denouncing it as terrorism.
The order by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Ajoy Mehta came days after a civic body took a similar decision in the adjoining Thane district banning meat sale for eight days from September 11 to 18 when the Jain community will observe fasting period 'Paryushan'.
Defending the civic body's decision, Mumbai BJP unit's general secretary Amarjeet Mishra on Tuesday said the ban has been imposed to protect the sentiments of the Jain community and that it should not be taken as a "targeted decision."
According to the order passed by BMC - ruled by Sena and BJP- on Monday, the ban on meat sale would be enforced on four days - September 10, 13, 17 and 18. Mehta did not reply to a message sent by PTI for his comments over the decision.
However, civic officials claimed that this is not a new decision and it has been in practice for last several years, adding that the prohibition will not affect the sale of fish and other seafood.
They said the step was taken in view of the growing demand not only by the Jain community, but also from some BJP corporators.
"On these four days, BMC slaughter houses will be shut and sale of meat will also be prohibited. The market department (of BMC) has been asked to enforce the ban and ensure no animal is slaughtered and no meat is sold anywhere in the city," a senior civic official said.
Civic officials warned of stern action if the ban is violated.
Opposing the order, a community said their businesses will suffer heavy losses if the meat ban stays and they will approach the Mayor for its review. "If we don't get justice, we will file a writ petition in High Court, go on a hunger strike and fight for our rights."
The Maharashtra government had imposed a ban on beef in the state in March this year.

• India