Instructions Issued to Shut Down Illegal Meat Shops

Kota, May – Kota South MLA Sandeep Sharma has directed immediate action to shut down illegal meat shops operating across the city. In a review meeting held at the Circuit House with health and administrative officials, Sharma expressed serious concerns over the growing number of unlicensed and unhygienic meat shops, stating that such practices are unacceptable in any form.

He stressed that meat shops are being opened arbitrarily, without licenses or concern for hygiene, which not only disrespects public sentiment but also poses a significant risk to public health. Sharma instructed that a thorough inspection be carried out across all meat-selling outlets, and shops operating without valid licenses be shut down immediately. For licensed vendors, compliance with all regulations must be ensured.

Highlighting Rajasthan’s predominantly vegetarian demographic, Sharma pointed out that many people choose vegetarianism based on religious beliefs. The sight of animal carcasses hanging openly on roadsides is deeply disturbing to many and constitutes a form of mental harassment. It also violates citizens' fundamental rights to a clean environment and good health.

He also raised concerns over the increasing incidents of cattle theft in nearby rural areas, suggesting that stolen animals may be slaughtered and their meat sold in these illegal shops. Shutting down such outlets, he added, would also help reduce cattle theft and benefit livestock owners.

Further, he drew attention to the illegal fishing activities in sensitive areas like the National Gharial Sanctuary, where offenders catch fish and sell them on roadsides—an act punishable by law. He proposed joint action with the Forest Department to destroy unauthorized boats used in such activities.

MLA Sharma reminded the officials that under existing norms, the Chief Medical and Health Department only issues licenses for selling cooked non-vegetarian food. No permissions are granted for slaughtering animals or selling raw meat. Meanwhile, the Municipal Corporation has already identified over 150 illegal meat shops and issued notices as part of its ongoing campaign.

He strongly emphasized that keeping in view the religious sentiments of the residents, no illegal meat shops should be allowed to operate in Kota. Most of these shops are located in residential areas, causing significant inconvenience to the public. Despite government efforts to maintain a clean and healthy Kota, these unauthorized establishments are hindering progress.

“Kota is a Smart City, a Care City, an Education City, a tourist destination, and a religious hub,” Sharma said, “and to protect its sanctity, these illegal meat shops must be shut down.”

He added that these shops are also polluting the environment, as waste from slaughtered animals affects both health and sanitation. Often, waste is dumped openly or in water bodies, attracting stray animals and spreading filth.

He concluded by affirming that strict action will be taken according to government guidelines, ensuring that illegal meat shops are completely eliminated from the city.

Among the officials present at the meeting were Municipal Commissioner Dharmendra Tyagi and Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. Narendra Nagar, along with others from relevant departments.