Lift the ban on meat and fish sales during the festive season; Marathi Integration Committee takes an aggressive stance.

Mira-Bhayandar, 8 September (City News Mumbai)

The Marathi Integration Committee has strongly opposed the municipal corporation's decision to impose a two‑day ban on the sale of meat and fish during the Paryushan period. The committee's executive members demanded the decision be withdrawn immediately, after meeting the municipal commissioner.

Decisions that could create religious tension, conflict or riots in the city should not be taken. The committee stated that each individual should practice his or her own religion, but it should not be imposed on others. It also clarified that, in view of the freedom of food and drink guaranteed to citizens by the Constitution of India, no such restriction should be placed on any citizen.

Even though the Jain community’s Paryushan festival is being honored, who will consider the livelihood of the women from the local Agri‑Koli community who sell fish? The committee raised this question. It noted that the two‑day sales ban will affect families that depend on daily earnings.

Committee member Govardhan Deshmukh, questioning the municipal decision, said, “Just because I wear a hat, should the commissioner and additional commissioner also be required to wear a hat? Then how can a decision be imposed on the entire city based on the dietary habits of a single individual or community?”

“Because I am a vegetarian, everyone should stop selling meat and fish; this is a tyrannical decision. The notice issued by the municipal corporation should be withdrawn immediately. We do not accept this two‑day ban,” the committee stated unequivocally.

Just because the municipal corporation passes a resolution does not mean the decision can be imposed on citizens’ fundamental freedoms. The committee also asked what meaning it would have if, tomorrow, a different resolution were passed by a majority and imposed on the entire city.

“We are not under British rule. The municipal administration and elected representatives must remember that we are servants appointed for the service of the people,” the Marathi Integration Committee urged, demanding that decisions be taken with the confidence of the citizens.

The committee has called on the municipal administration to withdraw the meat and fish sales ban and to preserve the city’s religious and social harmony.