PATNA: Bihar govt has decided to ban sale of meat and fish near educational institutions, places of worship and in crowded areas, deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha said Monday, citing public health risks and concerns that such environments could encourage violent behaviour among children.Authorities flagged shops operating close to temples, mosques, schools, colleges, and other crowded public spaces, calling it a breach of regulations that threatens social harmony. The proposed meat-fish ban near these places will be enforced universally, with no exceptions for vendors holding licences.“We respect individual food choices, but let’s maintain social harmony and avoid hurting sentiments. No one’s feelings should be offended and public health shouldn’t be compromised with contaminated products,” said Sinha, who holds urban development and housing portfolio.The crackdown has already begun. Urban development and housing department issued Sunday strict instructions to all municipal bodies to act against illegal meat and fish shops operating without valid licences. Many such outlets are running in violation of Bihar Municipal Act, often in open and unhygienic conditions, posing serious risks to sanitation, public health, and law and order, the department said.Municipal bodies have been directed to immediately identify unlicensed outlets and take “decisive action”. Shops failing to meet prescribed hygiene norms are to be sealed without delay. Govt said future operations must strictly follow licencing conditions and hygiene rules. Legal proceedings will be initiated against violators.All municipal bodies have been asked to carry out inspection drives, shut down illegal outlets, and submit detailed compliance reports at the earliest.
