UP Government Cracks Down on Illegal Slaughterhouses, Bans Meat Sale Near Religious Places

Uttar Pradesh (The Uttam Hindu): In a decisive move, the Uttar Pradesh government has ordered the immediate closure of illegal slaughterhouses and a ban on the sale of meat within 500 meters of religious places. This action, announced on Saturday, is aimed at enforcing existing laws and ensuring a more peaceful atmosphere around sacred sites.

The directive comes directly from Amrit Abhijat, Principal Secretary of the Urban Development Department, who has instructed all District Magistrates, Police Commissioners, and Municipal Commissioners to implement the measures without delay. According to the government statement, these steps align with earlier orders from 2014 and 2017, reaffirming the ban on meat sales near both religious places and illegal slaughterhouses.

Ram Navami 2025: A Day of Strict Enforcement

A special emphasis has been placed on April 6, 2025, the day of Ram Navami, when the meat sale will be completely prohibited. In preparation for this, district-level committees have been established under the leadership of District Magistrates. These committees will include officials from key departments such as Police, Pollution Control, Animal Husbandry, Transport, Labor, Health, and Food Safety, ensuring coordinated enforcement.

The government has also invoked the UP Municipal Corporation Act of 1959 and the Food Safety Act of 2006 and 2011 to ensure strict punitive action against those found violating the regulations.

With this latest move, the Uttar Pradesh government is not only ensuring the closure of illegal slaughterhouses but also enforcing a cleaner, more regulated environment near religious sites, particularly as the state prepares for significant cultural and religious events.