Bengaluru Meat Sale and Slaughter Ban on Sunday, Feb 15: Everything You Need to Know
The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has announced a total ban on animal slaughter and the sale of all types of meat, including chicken and mutton, on Sunday, February 15. This restriction is in observance of Maha Shivaratri.
The ban will be in effect for the entire day across the city. It applies to all slaughterhouses, retail meat shops, local markets, and even online meat delivery platforms within the GBA’s jurisdiction.
Official Order Issued
The Deputy Director of the Animal Husbandry Department for the GBA issued the formal directive on Thursday, February 12. This move follows the city’s long-standing tradition of observing “no-meat days” during significant national and religious holidays.
Bengaluru typically enforces similar bans on occasions such as:
- Mahavir Jayanti
- Ram Navami
- Gandhi Jayanti
- Sarvodaya Day (Martyrs’ Day)
The February 15 restriction marks the second major meat ban of 2026, following the one held on January 30 for Sarvodaya Day.
Impact on Businesses and Restaurants
While slaughterhouses and shops must close, restaurants and bars are allowed to remain open. However, many local eateries are expected to offer special vegetarian menus or modify their listings to support devotees who are fasting for the festival.
Other Occasional Restrictions
In addition to religious holidays, the GBA also enforces a meat ban within a 13-km radius of the Yelahanka Air Force Station during the annual Aero India Show. This specific measure is taken for flight safety, as meat waste can attract birds that pose a risk of mid-air collisions.
Penalties for Violations
The GBA has warned that any business or individual violating the Sunday ban will face penalties. Authorities have requested full cooperation from citizens and shop owners to ensure the order is followed.
The Significance of Maha Shivaratri
This year, Maha Shivaratri falls on February 15. The festival is one of the most sacred events in the Hindu calendar, celebrating the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devotees observe the day with night-long prayers, fasting, and special rituals.
Heightened Security Across States
In a related development, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to ensure strict law and order during the upcoming festive season, which includes Maha Shivaratri, Holi, and Ramzan. He emphasized that any attempts to disturb communal harmony or create unrest would be met with firm legal action.
Also Read : Chinese Yuan Expected to Strengthen Against Indian Rupee: Key Reasons
