Daijiworld Media Network - Varanasi

Varanasi, Mar 29: In a first for Varanasi, all meat, fish, and poultry shops within the city's municipal limits will remain closed throughout Chaitra Navratri, starting Sunday. The decision was taken by the Varanasi Municipal Corporation’s executive committee, led by mayor Ashok Kumar Tiwari, The Times of India reported.

The closure coincides with Eid, which is expected to be celebrated on Monday, depending on the moon sighting.

Mayor Tiwari emphasized that Navratri is a sacred period for Hindus, and the ban should be observed with respect. "They (Muslims) 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 said.

He further stated that Varanasi is the religious and cultural capital, with nearly 2 lac pilgrims visiting daily, reinforcing the need for such a measure.

Apart from the ban on meat shops, the executive committee has also prohibited cigarette sales near religious sites and schools and introduced a licence fee for cigarette vendors.

Earlier this month, the Varanasi Municipal Corporation (VMC) cracked down on 26 non-vegetarian food shops near Kashi Vishwanath Temple as part of its ongoing enforcement.

This move follows a precedent set by temple towns like Ayodhya, Mathura, and Haridwar, where meat and liquor shops are banned within a 2-5 km radius of religious sites.