New Delhi | In a move that mirrors Uttar Pradesh’s approach, the Delhi government has decided to close down meat shops along the Kanwar Yatra routes during the holy pilgrimage period. Delhi Cabinet Minister Kapil Mishra announced that meat shops, particularly those operating without proper licenses, will not be allowed to function while the Kanwar Yatra is underway in the national capital.
Speaking exclusively to NDTV, Minister Mishra stated that the government, in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), has resolved to implement this decision to ensure that religious sentiments of the Kanwar pilgrims, known as Kanwariyas, are respected.
Sacred Significance Behind the Move
The Kanwar Yatra, held annually during the Hindu holy month of Sawan (Shravan), witnesses millions of devotees traveling on foot to fetch holy water from the Ganges River and offering it to Lord Shiva. This period is marked by spiritual fervor and heightened religious sensitivity. With the festival expected to begin from July 11, large groups of devotees are expected to traverse through several parts of Delhi.
Minister Mishra emphasized that the decision was made keeping in mind the sanctity of the pilgrimage. “The Kanwar Yatra is not just a religious ritual but an emotional and spiritual journey for millions. We cannot allow open meat shops along their path that could offend their sentiments,” he said.
Targeting Illegal Meat Shops
Mishra also drew attention to the illegal operation of many meat shops across the city. “Most of these establishments are running without proper licenses and hygiene standards. We are using the occasion of the Kanwar Yatra to enforce the law more strictly,” he stated. The crackdown, he added, is not only a gesture of respect toward religious beliefs but also a necessary step in regulating unlicensed meat vendors.
He clarified that the closure would not apply city-wide but specifically along the designated Kanwar routes where heavy footfall of pilgrims is expected.
Adoption of the UP Model
Delhi’s move comes shortly after Uttar Pradesh, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, declared the closure of meat shops from July 10 along major Kanwar Yatra routes in the state. UP has long followed a stricter code during religious festivities, and now Delhi appears to be aligning itself with similar measures.
“The Yogi government has set an example of how law, order, and religious harmony can go hand-in-hand. We are inspired by that and aim to provide the same spiritual atmosphere for Kanwariyas in Delhi,” Mishra added.
Administrative and Security Preparedness
The Delhi Police and civil administration have already begun preparing for the pilgrimage, with detailed plans for traffic management, crowd control, emergency services, and sanitation facilities. The closure of meat shops is now being added to the larger blueprint of administrative measures to ensure a smooth and respectful environment for the devotees.
Officials from the MCD have also been instructed to identify shops that are functioning without valid licenses or those that may pose hygiene concerns. Notices are expected to be issued this week, and action will be taken swiftly in case of non-compliance.
Political Reactions and Public Response
The decision is likely to spark debate across political and civil circles. While many see it as a step toward preserving religious harmony and law enforcement, others may raise concerns over livelihood and communal equity. However, Mishra was firm in stating that “faith and law must walk together,” and the government would not compromise on either.
As the Shravan month approaches, the national capital is gearing up for a spiritually charged season, and this administrative decision marks a significant moment in Delhi’s evolving approach to religious events.
The city now waits to see how effectively the government balances faith, law, and civic freedom in the days to come.