With meat sellers up in arms against the government and going on an indefinite strike on Monday, the state government came out to end the confusion over its action against illegal abattoirs in the state saying that the crackdown was only against illegal abattoirs and not the legal ones.
“We are acting only against illegal abattoirs. licenced slaughter house owners are requested to stick to the norms,” clarified Health minister Siddhartha Nath Singh while talking to media persons in lucknow here on Monday.
“licenced abattoirs should comply with the norms mentioned in the licence and they do not have to fear. No orders have been issued to take action against any shop selling chicken, fish or eggs. They need not fear,” Singh clarified.
The minister directed officials that they should not act in over-enthusiasm nor should they overstep their jurisdiction.
Citing an instance, Singh said, “One of the norms mentioned in the licence is installation of CCTV cameras in premises of the abattoir. If this norm is not complied with, then instead of ordering its closure, a notice could be issued to its owner instructing him to take remedial steps within specific time.” Noting that the National Green Tribunal had insisted on closure of illegal abattoirs, Singh said, “In 2015, the NGT had observed that illegal slaughter houses were a concern for environment, while insisting on their closure. However, the previous government did not do anything to ensure closure of these illegal abattoirs.”
On Monday, meat sellers across the state went on an indefinite strike against the crackdown on illegal and mechanised abattoirs.
Singh said that a propaganda was being circulated through various social media platforms especially by those who do not agree to our ideology. “Please do not fall prey to the propaganda,” he said.
On whether the government was open to holding talks with the meat sellers, the minister said, “So far, no delegation of meat sellers has approached us. They are most welcome to meet us and convey their point of view. We would meet them with an open mind, but will not allow illegal things.”
There are 302 meat shops running with licences issued by the lucknow Municipal Corporation in the state capital. . However their license is scheudled to expire on March 31 which will render them illegal after the date.
On young couples being harassed during Anti-Romeo drives, Singh said that the government would not tolerate any vigilanteism. “If anyone dares to engage in such exercise, he or she will have to face serious trouble.” he assured.