Meat Sale Banned in Bengaluru on February 26, Here's Why

The meat sale has been banned in Bengaluru on February 26 i.e on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has announced that on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, the slaughter of animals in slaughterhouses and the sale of meat in outlets within its jurisdiction will be strictly prohibited.

The civic body has issued a directive instructing all meat shops, slaughterhouses, and related businesses to remain closed on this day. Officials have warned that strict action will be taken against those violating the ban.

''As per the above-mentioned subject and reference, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, on the occasion of the Maha Shivaratri festival, animal slaughter in slaughterhouses and the sale of meat in outlets within the jurisdiction of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) are strictly prohibited,'' BBMP said.

Maha Shivaratri, a sacred Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, is widely observed with fasting and religious rituals. In line with past traditions, BBMP enforces a meat sale ban on significant religious occasions to respect cultural sentiments and maintain public order.

Authorities have urged business owners to adhere to the directive, and enforcement teams will be deployed to ensure compliance.

Earlier this year, in preparation for Aero India 2025, the BBMP imposed a ban on the sale and serving of meat within a 13-kilometer radius of Yelahanka Airforce Station from January 23 to February 17. The restriction was enforced ahead of the prestigious air show, which took place from February 10 to February 14.

The BBMP regularly enforces such sale of meat restrictions on religious occasions, including Gandhi Jayanti and prominent Hindu festivals.