In observance of Sarvodaya Day (Martyrs’ Day), Bengaluru and Hyderabad’s municipal authorities enforced a ban on animal slaughter and meat sales on Thursday, January 30. The day, which commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s death anniversary, also honors the contributions and sacrifices of individuals who gave their lives for the nation.
In Hyderabad, slaughterhouses for sheep, goats, and cattle, as well as meat and beef shops, were closed within the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) limits. A directive was issued by GHMC commissioner K Ilambarithi under Section 533(b) of the GHMC Act 1955, urging the police commissioners to ensure strict adherence to the ban.
Similarly, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) mandated the suspension of meat sales across the city. According to BBMP records, Bengaluru houses nearly 3,000 licensed meat shops and three authorized slaughterhouses, though several illegal outlets remain unaccounted for.
This annual ban is a tradition observed on Martyrs’ Day, with enforcement taking place each year to honor the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, who was assassinated on this day in 1948. Alongside the meat ban, Maharashtra also observed a “dry day” on January 30, prohibiting the sale of alcohol in all liquor stores, pubs, bars, and restaurants.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Gandhi and all those who died for the country, reflecting on their sacrifices.
Read also: