What Sparked the Controversy Over Meat Seizures in Bhopal?
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Synopsis
Protests erupted in Bhopal over allegations of cow meat seizures and irregularities in a slaughterhouse, leading activists to demand the resignation of Mayor Malti Rai. The situation escalated as Congress sought an investigation into the tendering process, raising serious questions about accountability within the Bhopal Municipal Corporation.
Key Takeaways
- Protests erupted demanding the resignation of Bhopal Mayor Malti Rai.
- The incident highlights irregularities in the local slaughterhouse operations.
- Activists accuse the Mayor of protecting illegal activities.
- The BMC has taken action by sealing the slaughterhouse.
- Congress is demanding an investigation into the tendering process.
Bhopal, Jan 21 (NationPress) In the midst of a growing controversy concerning the confiscation of suspected cow meat and alleged misconduct at a slaughterhouse, several organizations, including the Bajrang Dal, initiated a new wave of protests on Wednesday, calling for the resignation of Bhopal Mayor Malti Rai.
During the demonstration outside Mayor Rai's residence, right-wing activists, carrying placards and banners, shouted slogans and recited the Hanuman Chalisa. They also defaced her nameplate with black ink.
Protesters accused Mayor Malti Rai of protecting individuals implicated in unlawful cow slaughter and facilitating the operation of the slaughterhouse with the cooperation of officials from the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC). They claimed that Mayor Rai attempted to downplay the situation, even after police registered a case against the matter.
Additional Police Commissioner Ankita Khatarkar arrived shortly after the protest commenced, working to restore order.
She remarked that the protest was conducted without the necessary permission from local law enforcement, and measures would be taken regarding this violation.
In another development, a faction of Congress activists visited the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Madhya Pradesh Police and submitted a memorandum, urging an investigation into the alleged misconduct during the tender process linked to the Bhopal slaughterhouse.
“Documents clearly indicate that the Bhopal Municipal Corporation had solicited tenders for the slaughterhouse, which were later revoked. The question arises: if the tenders were canceled, how could the slaughterhouse continue operations? We have provided documents to the EOW and requested an inquiry,” stated Abhinav Barolia, a Congress spokesperson, to IANS.
The Bhopal Municipal Corporation has sealed the Jahangirabad slaughterhouse, currently under investigation, following a forensic report confirming that a seized container truck was transporting prohibited meat (beef).
Two weeks prior, the state government suspended over a dozen municipal officials, including the slaughterhouse manager, and initiated an inquiry into the matter.
The situation surfaced on December 17 when members of a right-wing group intercepted a container truck near the Police Headquarters in the Jahangirabad area, claiming it was carrying prohibited meat intended for distribution outside the state and potentially internationally.
The container was found with over 25 tonnes of meat. Police seized both the vehicle and its contents. However, the municipal body remained inactive until right-wing protesters demonstrated at the Police Headquarters and the municipal office several days ago.
Point of View
I observe that this issue highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding meat regulation and political accountability in Bhopal. The protests reflect broader societal concerns about transparency and governance within municipal bodies. The call for investigations is a critical step towards ensuring that justice is served and community trust is restored.
NationPress
22/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What initiated the protests in Bhopal?
The protests were triggered by the seizure of alleged cow meat and accusations of irregularities at a local slaughterhouse, leading activists to demand Mayor Malti Rai's resignation.
Who is leading the protests?
Members of various organizations, including the Bajrang Dal, are leading the protests against Bhopal Mayor Malti Rai.
What actions has the Bhopal Municipal Corporation taken?
The Bhopal Municipal Corporation has sealed the Jahangirabad slaughterhouse and suspended multiple officials involved in the case.
What role did the Economic Offences Wing play in this incident?
The Economic Offences Wing has been approached by Congress workers to investigate alleged irregularities in the tendering process related to the slaughterhouse.
What was found in the seized container truck?
The container truck was found to be carrying over 25 tonnes of prohibited meat (beef).
