Liquor Shops Closed And Meat Sale Banned In Bengaluru On October 2

In Bengaluru, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has declared that the city will not permit the slaughter and sale of meat on October 2, to honor Gandhi Jayanti. This decision has sparked controversy among local citizens, particularly because the date also falls on Pitru Paksha or Mahalaya Amavasya, a day when many Hindu families honor their ancestors with offerings that often include non-vegetarian dishes. The overlap of these observances has led to calls from groups, including the Jayaprakash Narayana Vichara Vedike, for the government to reconsider the ban. They argue that the ban disrupts the traditional practices observed during this sacred period.

Additionally, Bengaluru will observe a dry day on October 2, with liquor shops across the city shutting down in recognition of Gandhi Jayanti. This gesture of respect for Mahatma Gandhi, known as the "Father of the Nation," is part of a nationwide observance during important national and religious events. The excise department's decision mirrors the sentiment of reverence towards Gandhi's contributions to India's independence movement.

Moreover, the capital city of Delhi will also see liquor shops closing their doors on several key dates during the festive months of October and November. The excise department has outlined these closures to coincide with various significant religious and national holidays. In October, the closures will take place on Gandhi Jayanti, Vijaya Dashami, Maharshi Valmiki Jayanti, and Diwali. November will witness shop closures on Guru Nanak Jayanti and Guru Tegh Bahadur Shaheedi Diwas. These measures reflect a broader tradition of honoring these days with sobriety and reverence across the country.

"Many Hindu families in Karnataka prepare non-vegetarian food as an offering to their ancestors during this sacred period. Considering the overlap with Gandhi Jayanti, we respectfully request the government to lift the ban on the sale of meat," stated members of the Jayaprakash Narayana Vichara Vedike. This quote underscores the tension between respecting Gandhi's legacy and honoring familial traditions tied to Pitru Paksha.