BMC Announces Deonar Abattoir Closure Dates for Paryushan Parv

The Bombay High Court has instructed Maharashtra's civic bodies to consider a Jain trust's plea for a temporary ban on animal slaughter and meat sales during Paryushan Parv. The Sheth Motishaw Lalbaug Jain Charities filed the petition, highlighting Jain beliefs, including non-violence. They requested a ban from August 31 to September 7, arguing that slaughter during this period would harm Jainism.

Bhushan Gagrani, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) commissioner-cum-administrator, issued an order detailing the closure of Deonar abattoir on September 4 and 7. This decision aligns with the court's directive and considers various aspects of the issue. Gagrani stated that BMC will close the abattoir annually on Bhadarva Sud Ekam, which falls on September 4 this year.

Closure Dates for Deonar Abattoir

Ganesh Chaturthi is another day when the Deonar abattoir remains closed, as per a 2015 decision. This year, it coincides with Paryushan Parv on September 7, leading to the abattoir's closure on both dates. Gagrani also instructed the relevant department to review closure dates to ensure they do not exceed 15 days annually.

The High Court's division bench, comprising Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar, saw no obstacle in directing civic bodies to decide on the trust's representation. "We accordingly direct the authorities to decide the representation of the petitioner seeking to impose a temporary ban on the slaughtering of animals and sale of meat during from August 31 to September 7," they stated.

Review of Abattoir Closure Days

The court urged civic bodies to make an urgent decision since Paryushan Parv starts on August 31. The trust emphasized that allowing animal slaughter during this festival would be detrimental to their religious practices. The court's directive aims to respect these religious sentiments while balancing administrative decisions.

In response to the court's directive, Gagrani confirmed that one day of closure would be observed each year during Paryushan Parv. This year's closure dates are set for September 4 and 7, aligning with both Paryushan Parv and Ganesh Chaturthi. The BMC will ensure that total closure days do not surpass 15 annually.

The High Court's intervention highlights the importance of considering religious sentiments in administrative decisions. By directing civic bodies to review and decide on such representations promptly, it ensures that community beliefs are respected while maintaining public order.

The decision underscores a balanced approach towards religious observances and administrative responsibilities. It reflects an effort to accommodate diverse community needs within the framework of civic governance.