Patna: The government of Bihar has announced a ban on the open sale of meat and fish in urban areas, introducing stricter regulations for retailers as part of a wider push to improve public health standards and civic management. Under the new policy, only licensed shops will be allowed to sell meat or fish, marking a significant change for vendors operating in municipal areas across the state.
The announcement was made by Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha during the budget session of the Bihar Legislative Council on Monday. Speaking in the assembly, he said the move was prompted by concerns raised by residents and aimed at balancing public sentiment with health considerations. Authorities have been instructed to ensure that the rules are implemented across all urban local bodies, with enforcement measures planned against unlicensed operators.
Vijay Sinha, who also holds the urban development and housing portfolio, said that complaints received during a recent public engagement in Darbhanga influenced the decision. Residents reportedly called for restrictions on open meat sales within the jurisdiction of the Darbhanga Municipal Corporation, raising concerns about hygiene and the visual impact of roadside vending.
According to the new guidelines, meat shop owners must obtain licenses under Section 345, and compliance with specific operating conditions will be mandatory. One key requirement is that meat must not be displayed or sold in the open. District administrations and municipal officials have been directed to inspect existing outlets, relocate licensed vendors to suitable locations where required, and take action against those operating illegally.
