The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) stated on Thursday that it cannot issue an order directing meat shops to shut during the Kanwar Yatra, as no such provision exists under the Delhi Municipal Corporation (DMC) Act of 1957. This clarification came after Law and Order Minister Kapil Mishra announced on Wednesday the closure of meat shops located along the pilgrimage route of the Kanwariyas.

In a written reply, the civic body said that the DMC Act contains no clause permitting the closure of meat shops for this purpose. However, in recent years, it has been observed that many shop owners voluntarily close their establishments during the pilgrimage.

Leaders Speak

Minister Mishra said the decision had been taken jointly by the Delhi government and the MCD, a view echoed by Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh. The mayor also highlighted the civic body’s legal limitations and told national media, “We will request meat shop owners to voluntarily shut their shops, keeping in mind the religious sentiments associated with the Kanwar Yatra.”

Leader of the House Pravesh Wahi also spoke on the issue, saying, “Strict action will be taken against illegal shops. Those that are illegal—we will request them to shut down. The mayor has already made this request.”

The annual Kanwar Yatra begins during the Hindu month of Shravan. This year, it is expected to commence today and culminate on July 25.