Meat Shops Ordered Closed During Navratri in Varanasi as Delhi Cracks Down on Illegal Sellers

The Varanasi Municipal Corporation has mandated a nine-day closure of all fish and meat shops for Navratri, while Delhi ramps up action against unlicensed vendors under BJP-led demands.

The Varanasi Municipal Corporation has implemented a full closure of fish and meat shops during the nine-day Navratri festival, citing religious sentiments in the holy city.
Delhi's Public Works Department Minister Parvesh Verma announced intensified efforts to shut down illegal meat shops, particularly those operating in public spaces, ahead of Navratri.
BJP leaders in Delhi, including MLAs Ravinder Singh Negi and Karnail Singh, have pushed for meat shop closures, citing the need to respect Hindu religious practices during the festival.
In Bhopal, the Bharat Raksha Manch, supported by BJP legislator Rameshwar Sharma, has requested similar closures, though no formal action has been taken yet.
Critics argue these measures disproportionately affect small businesses, particularly Muslim-owned establishments, raising concerns about constitutionality, classism, and selective enforcement.