Legal Battle Over Meat Shop Closures During Kanwar Yatra in Varanasi

A petition by the National Loktantrik Party challenges the Varanasi Municipal Corporation's directive to close meat shops along the Kanwar Yatra route during Sawan. The petition argues that the order violates fundamental rights under Articles 19(1)(g) and 21 of the Indian Constitution, affecting livelihoods and individual liberties.

A petition has been filed before the Allahabad High Court challenging the Varanasi Municipal Corporation's (VMC) order to close meat shops along the Kanwar Yatra route during the month of Sawan.

The National Loktantrik Party, through its national president (executive) Mohammad Suhail, has moved the petition.

The petitioner argues that the VMC directive violates the fundamental freedom to carry on any occupation, trade, or business as guaranteed under Article 19(1)(g), as well as the right to life with dignity and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.

The petition states that the age-old practice of Kanwar Yatra in Sawan has seen meat shops remain open and claims that the authorities are creating an exclusion by identity.

It also argues that the directive, without considering the potential impact on shopkeepers' livelihoods, is unreasonable and infringes on their fundamental rights. Sudden closure of these shops, many of which are rented, will severely affect the owners, predominantly of Muslim faith.

The VMC had announced the closure on Sunday, citing concerns that Kanwariyas might face issues during their yatra. The route reportedly has 96 meat shops.

(With inputs from agencies.)