Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 13: A controversy has erupted across the country after several civic bodies ordered the closure of slaughterhouses and meat shops on Independence Day. Leaders from various political parties have slammed the move, calling it an attack on people’s food choices and personal freedom on the very day the nation celebrates its independence.

In Hyderabad, AIMIM chief and MP Asaduddin Owaisi criticised the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) for issuing a closure order for August 15 and 16 — Independence Day and Janmashtami.

“Many municipal corporations across India have made similar orders. This is callous and unconstitutional. What’s the connection between eating meat and celebrating Independence Day? Ninety-nine percent of Telangana’s people eat meat. Such bans violate liberty, privacy, livelihood, culture, nutrition, and religion,” Owaisi said.

In Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, a similar directive drew objection from Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. “It is wrong to impose such a ban. In major cities, people of various castes and religions live together. For an emotional issue, people may accept a one-day closure. But imposing bans on Maharashtra Day, Independence Day, and Republic Day is difficult,” Pawar remarked.

The Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation in Thane also issued a meat ban order. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray reacted sharply, demanding suspension of the municipal commissioner.

“What we eat on Independence Day is our right and our freedom. They cannot dictate our food. Even during Navratri, our prasad has prawns and fish because that is our tradition — this is our Hindutva. Why are you entering our homes? The civic body should focus on pothole-ridden roads instead,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena spokesperson Arun Sawant clarified that the Maharashtra government had not approved any such ban. “The Opposition is levelling false allegations against the state government to malign it,” he said.