Ggn denizens give thumbs down to ban on meat shops

The March 28 incident of Shiv Sena forcing more than 300 meat shops to shut down in Gurugram has failed to stir fear among its residents.

Most of them, have defied the meat ban in the city. Two days after the controversy, shops and restaurants in the city continue selling their inventories. Also, they are fetching a sizeable number of customers.

Certain famous shops that are registered with Gurugram meat market union have closed their shops during Navratras and also stated that they will keep their shops shut on every Tuesday. However, owners of these meat units have maintained that they have taken this decision out of respect for religious sentiments than fear of rogue outfits.

On Thursday, in Old Gurugram area of Sadar Bazaar and Jacobpura many shops were kept closed but most of the owners had kept their shop running.

"Some of my colleagues decided to not open their shops during Navratras as they felt it was not appropriate them to hurt the sensitivities during a significant religious. Yet, I have decided to open my shop as I have been getting customers from all religious communities in the past. Ultimately it depends upon your choice and intent. Who are we to hurt any one's religious sentiments," said Shakib owner of meat shop near Jama Masjid area in Sadar Bazaar area.

"There is always a fear of some outfits trying to intimidate us during these occasions but the amity between the citizens in the city is strong. I have been assured of protection by the Gurugram Police. However, more than the Gurugram Police, I have more trust on my customers and the citizens of this city," added Shakib.

While some of the big meat shops in the Old Gurugram will remain closed during Navratras, most of the small meat shops units have decided to not buckle under fear and continue with their business.

At Sikanderpur meat mandi, even under scorching heat, units of were set up by meat sellers. "We do not have proper space for selling our items. For many the place may be unhygienic and dirty. Yet, despite all this the Sikanderpur Mandi has its loyal customers. The meat sellers over here have not buckled under the fear of powerful builders how can we," said Tariq.