Meat sale ban ahead of PM’s visit draws flak; police cite helicopter safety concerns

A ban on the sale of meat in villages near Jigani in Bengaluru, imposed by the Bengaluru Urban Deputy Commissioner ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, citing probable law and order issues, has drawn widespread criticism from citizens and progressive groups.

A Facebook post by activist Shivasundar questioning the order was restricted access in India, drawing much ire.

However, the police on Friday claimed that the ban was aimed at preventing the movement of birds around the butcher shops, which could pose a threat to helicopter movement.

Mr. Modi landed at a helipad in Jigani on Friday morning to visit Prashanti Kuteeram, to participate in an event. The official said similar ban is enforced around Jakkur during an aero show. A possible crash could trigger public commotion, potentially leading to law and order issues, the official said.

The order, dated November 10 and issued by P.S. Kantharaju, Deputy Commissioner, Bengaluru (Urban) district, prohibited the sale of meat from November 12 from 6 a.m. to November 13 till 4 p.m. It cited a proposal submitted by Bengaluru Rural Superintendent of Police Chandrakanth M.V. seeking a ban on meat sale. The letter from the official noted the possibility of “anti-social elements” triggering “law-and-order issues” could pose security concerns, and requested an order directing the closure of all butcher shops.

The order, however, drew criticism from the public, with many arguing that it violated people’s democratic rights.

Mr. Shivasundar questioned the order and said it was “undemocratic” and the association of “meat-eating” with “law and order issues” betrayed the mindset behind the order. He also pointed out similar orders were not imposed in other areas where the Prime Minister travelled by air.

His post on Facebook was restricted access in India within minutes of posting on Friday morning.

Speaking to The Hindu, Mr. Chandrakanth said the wording of the order may have confused people, but the intention was to ensure that birds such as eagles did not pose a threat to helicopter movement.