Varanasi: In a move aimed at preserving the sanctity of the holy month of Sawan, the Varanasi Municipal Corporation has decided to ban the sale of meat and fish across the city for the entire month. The ban will remain in force for 30 days, covering the full 182-square-mile jurisdiction of the municipal limits.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the Municipal Executive Committee held on Friday under the chairmanship of Mayor Ashok Kumar Tiwari. As per the resolution, all meat and fish shops within the city limits will remain completely shut throughout the month. If any shop is found violating the ban, a First Information Report (FIR) will be filed against the violators.
The proposal to implement the ban was introduced by committee member Hanuman Prasad. He argued that in deference to the religious sentiments of the devotees during Sawan, all non-vegetarian outlets should remain closed. The mayor endorsed the proposal and issued strict instructions for 100% enforcement of the ban.
Municipal Commissioner Akshat Verma was asked to ensure the implementation of the committee’s decision. Animal Welfare Officer Santosh Pal, who was also present at the meeting, assured the committee members that no meat or fish outlets would be allowed to operate during Sawan. He further stated that violators would face legal action under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, and shops could also face seizure.
The residents of Varanasi have welcomed this decision. Ramesh Chaurasia, a local resident and Shiv devotee, said: "Sawan is a deeply spiritual month for us. Lord Shiva is worshipped with utmost devotion, and the sight or smell of meat during this time is hurtful to our sentiments. I wholeheartedly welcome the corporation's decision — it shows respect for our faith."
Savitri Mishra, a schoolteacher and longtime resident of Varanasi, further added: "This is a commendable step. Varanasi is not just a city — it is the spiritual capital of India. Banning meat and fish sales during Sawan upholds the sacredness of the month and reflects the cultural values of our city."
The Sawan month is considered especially sacred for devotees of Lord Shiva, and Varanasi — one of Hinduism's holiest cities — witnesses a surge in pilgrimages and religious activities. The civic body’s move aligns with the cultural and spiritual ethos of the city during this period.
