Open Meat Sale Thrives In Old Bhopal Despite Ban

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Despite an official ban on open sale of meat and eggs in public view, meat and mutton are still being openly sold in several parts of Old Bhopal, including Islampura, Noor Mahal Road, Budhwara and surrounding areas.

In December 2023, soon after taking charge, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced a statewide ban on open display and sale of meat and eggs. Following the order, the district administration and Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) launched enforcement drives to ensure compliance. In response, many traders temporarily installed opaque glass panels at their outlets to conceal meat displays.

However, months later, a ground reality check reveals that the practice of open sale has returned in multiple localities. Traders argue they have no other choice due to the lack of covered meat markets — dedicated enclosed structures for meat trading — in areas like Qazi Camp, Noor Mahal Road, BHEL and others.

“Traders have different shop sizes, many are small. After putting opaque glass, where will customers stand? We have no choice but to sell in the open. It’s a matter of livelihood,” said Rafiq Qureshi, former corporator of Budhwara.

He said that covered markets for meat exist in cities like Mumbai and Pune, and similar facilities are a long-pending demand in Bhopal.

Qureshi said, “The administration wants us to follow rules but hasn't provided the necessary infrastructure. How do they expect small shops to comply?”

Responding to concerns, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Deepak Pandey said, “If there is no covered meat market, it is not our headache. If traders have small shops, it is not the administration’s job to provide them bigger ones. Our job is to enforce the CM’s order. Action will be taken against those found violating it.”