In anticipation of the upcoming Navratri festival, the district administration of Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, has issued an order to close all shops selling meat, chicken, fish, and similar products from October 3 to October 11. The directive was officially announced on Tuesday, with strict legal consequences outlined for those who do not comply.
Manik Chandra Singh, Assistant Commissioner (Food) II of the Food Safety and Drug Administration in Ayodhya, said in an official statement, “In view of the upcoming Navratri festival, from 03.10.2024 to 11.10.2024, all meat shops of goat, chicken, fish, etc., will remain closed in district Ayodhya. If the general public is selling and storing meat at the said shops on that date, then inform the department on telephone number- 05278366607.” Singh further emphasized that any violations would result in “strict legal action against the concerned food traders under the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006.”
This order comes ahead of Navratri, one of the most significant Hindu festivals in India. Navratri, also known as Shardiya Navratri or Sharad Navratri, is a nine-day celebration dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine forms. The festival concludes with Vijayadashami, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. During this time, Hindus abstain from non-vegetarian food as part of the festival’s religious observances.
Navratri is celebrated with immense devotion across the country, with rituals, fasting, and prayers marking the occasion. In Ayodhya, the closure of meat shops is in alignment with the festival’s customs, allowing for a more spiritually inclined atmosphere during the religious period.
The administration’s decision reflects the cultural sensitivity around Navratri and highlights the importance of maintaining tradition during this sacred period. Traders and residents have been asked to respect the religious significance of the festival and adhere to the guidelines to avoid any legal repercussions.
