Haryana to act against illegal slaughterhouses from May 1

Chandigarh: The Haryana government has decided to take strict action against illegal slaughterhouses and meat shops, a Minister said on Friday.

"Notices would be issued to owners of shops selling meat after slaughtering animals in violation of the rules in all urban local bodies and rural areas by May 15," Urban Local Bodies Minister Kavita Jain said.

She said Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar had approved a proposal to this effect. She directed officers of urban local bodies to take action against the violators. 

"On May 15, a ban would be imposed on illegal slaughter of animals and sale of meat procured thereof, throughout the state... It would be mandatory for owners of meat shops to furnish details regarding the source from where meat was purchased as well as the slaughterhouse," Jain said.

"Besides, meat would not be prepared in the shop and it would only be stored in a freezer. Such shops would not be allowed to operate near religious and educational institutions. The department has issued 21-point guidelines in this regard, compliance of which would be ensured by officers," she added.