Madhya Pradesh Bans Meat Sale In Holy Town Maihar During Navratri; Authorities Warn Of Strict Action Against Violators

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Authorities in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh have banned the sale of non-vegetarian food in Maihar town during the nine-day Navratri festival. Maihar, home to the revered Maa Sharda Mandir, witnesses a massive influx of devotees during the ‘Maa Shardey Chaitra Navratri Fair’.

Several BJP leaders, including PWD Minister Rakesh Singh, had pushed for a state-wide ban on meat shops during Navratri. The government has already ordered the permanent closure of liquor shops in 17 religious towns, including Maihar, starting April 1.

According to information, the ban aims to maintain religious sanctity as the festival began on Sunday. Additionally, meat shops in Bhopal and Indore will remain shut on key festivals, including Chaiti Chand (March 30), Ram Navami (April 6), Mahavir Jayanti (April 10), and Buddha Purnima (May 12). Municipal authorities have warned of strict action, including licence cancellation, against violators.

Past Precedents

This is not the first time such restrictions have been enforced. In previous years, local administrations in cities like Bhopal, Indore, and Ujjain have temporarily shut meat shops on Hindu festivals. Similar bans were also imposed in states like Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh during Navratri and other religious occasions.