Varanasi Shuts Meat Shops During Chaitra Navratri for the First Time

For the first time, Varanasi will keep all meat, fish, and poultry shops closed during Chaitra Navratri. The Varanasi Municipal Corporation’s (VMC) executive committee, led by Mayor Ashok Kumar Tiwari, made this decision during a meeting on Thursday.

Strict Enforcement of the Ban

Since Navratri coincides with Eid, expected on Monday based on the moon sighting, the authorities have decided to strictly enforce the closure. Mayor Tiwari emphasized, “The executive-approved proposal to close meat shops during Navratri will be enforced rigorously.”

He also urged the Muslim community to respect the religious sentiments of Hindus. “They should consider that their Hindu brothers find Navratri the most sacred. So, at least for nine days, let it be. Is anyone stopping them for 360 days?” he stated.

Varanasi’s Religious Significance

Tiwari highlighted Varanasi’s spiritual and cultural identity, calling it a “religious and cultural capital” that hosts nearly 2 lakh pilgrims daily. He insisted that following traditions should be voluntary rather than seen as an imposition.

During the meeting, executive committee member Madan Mohan Dubey proposed closing all non-vegetarian shops for the entire duration of Navratri. The committee unanimously approved the suggestion.

Additional Restrictions on Tobacco and Liquor

Along with banning meat sales, the VMC has also prohibited cigarette sales near religious sites and schools. The committee also introduced a new license fee for cigarette vendors.

Recent Crackdown on Non-Vegetarian Shops

Earlier this month, municipal authorities, led by city veterinary officer Dr. Ajay Pratap Singh, launched a drive to shut down 26 non-vegetarian food shops operating near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Officials extended the crackdown to Muslim-majority areas and busy markets such as Naisadak and Beniabagh.

Varanasi Follows Other Temple Towns

The proposal to ban meat and liquor shops near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple originated from Adivishveshwar corporator Indresh Kumar Singh. He cited Section 91(2) of the Municipal Corporation Act, 1959, as the legal basis for the decision.

In January, corporators pointed out that other temple towns, including Ayodhya, Mathura, and Haridwar, already prohibit meat and liquor shops within a two to five-kilometer radius of their religious sites. The VMC unanimously approved the proposal, aligning Varanasi with these cities.

By implementing these measures, Varanasi strengthens its identity as a major religious and cultural center while preserving the sanctity of its temple areas.