Haridwar's Meat Shop Relocation Plan Sparks Debate Ahead of Ardh Kumbh

The Haridwar administration plans to relocate all raw meat shops to Sarai village, aiming to uphold religious sentiments during next year's Ardh Kumbh. The proposal, to be presented on April 6, follows bylaws prohibiting meat, liquor, and eggs near Har Ki Pauri. Illegal meat shops face potential shutdowns.

In a move to preserve the sanctity of the Ardh Kumbh, the Haridwar administration has proposed the relocation of all raw meat shops operating within the city's urban boundaries to Sarai village. This proposal is set to be discussed at the Municipal Corporation Board meeting scheduled for April 6.

According to Haridwar's municipal regulations, the sale and consumption of meat, liquor, and eggs are banned within a five-kilometer radius of Har Ki Pauri. Mayor Kiran Jaiswal confirmed that if the proposal is approved, all urban area meat shops will be relocated, addressing hygiene issues and stray dog concerns.

The presence of illegal meat shops, despite permits for only 20, aggravates the situation. Hindu organizations have protested such shops, and prominent figures like Mahant Ravindra Puri have expressed concern over their impact on religious sentiments. State officials echo these concerns, emphasizing the importance of taking necessary steps ahead of the Ardh Kumbh.

(With inputs from agencies.)