Nagpur: The upheaval caused by State Government’s order banning sale of meat in Mumbai is taking other parts by storm. The ban was ordered on the request of Jain community on the occasion main Paryushan Parva. But the ban is creating turmoil with opposition from political parties gaining steam. While Shiv Sena and MNS have hit the streets and expressing their displeasure other parties too are cornering BJP on the issue. BJP’s contention is that the ban is in accordance with the law and on the other hand the opposing parties termed the ban as neglect of rest of the communities for the sake of one sect. At the moment the issue has reached the court doors but the protests are still being voiced.
Jain Samaj’s contention:
According to Jain Samaj, Paryushan Parva is one of their main Parva. Since the Jain community has adopted non-violence as a way of life, they consider slaughtering a great sin. In the backdrop of this aspect, when Jain community celebrates festivities harmoniously with all other communities 365 days a year, their feelings should be honoured at for this 8-day period.
However, the opponents of the meat ban said that the ban should have been limited to only one day. The 8-day ban is not only an excess to meat selling businessmen but it is an excess to meat consuming other communities.
Atik Qureshi
Atish Qureshi, a representative of slaughtering houses, said “The meat ban order of Government is absolutely wrong. The order is similar to violation of someone’s rights.
Lives of many people will get affected. No doubt the feelings of all should be honoured. One-day ban could have sufficed,” said Qureshi.
Jagdish Nimje
Jagdish Nimje, owner of Jagdish Saoji, said, “I am disappointed by the Government’s decision. This is wrong decision.
How can you stop people from eating their favorite food. The demand by Jain Samaj is also not correct,” Nimje said.
Abdulmatin Quershi
Abdulmateen Qureshi, broker in Mominpura Bakramandi, said “Before taking such decision, the Government should have given a thought for those people who are associated with the business. As if now the ban is limited to Mumbai only.
If the ban is enforced in other parts, it will face strong opposition.”
An owner of a hotel, Khurram Mirza, said, “When this Parva comes, already Shravan month is in progress. Meat sale and consumption is already on lower proportions. The business is minimal. One-day ban should have been enforced.”
Dileep Gandhi
Deepak Gandhi, President, Jain Seva Mandal, said, “Jain Samaj is follower of non-violence. We even walk safely so that an insect is not crushed.
Our request is that all religion’s people should support us. They should support closure of slaughter houses for at least 8 days.
When this could be done in Delhi then why not at other parts? Jain Samaj demand all the State Governments to ban meat sale for 8 days.”
