– Raheem Khan
Tonk: AIMIM leader Kashif Zuberi has submitted a memorandum to Nagar Parishad Commissioner, demanding an alternative location for a slaughterhouse after the demolition of an illegal facility by Nagar Parishad Tonk.
In a statement, Zuberi expressed strong opposition to the move, saying, “I oppose this contradictory action. Either a new slaughterhouse or a designated cutting facility must be arranged promptly, or the administration should be prepared for protests.”
Zuberi highlighted that a majority of Tonk population consumes meat and relies on the meat trade for their livelihood. Over half of the city’s residents are connected to this industry. However, for months, Nagar Parishad and local authorities have raised repeated concerns about meat sellers, citing licensing and NOC issues. Despite these challenges, NOCs for meat sales valid until 2025 were issued to many sellers.
On December 24, Nagar Parishad demolished the slaughterhouse, citing regulatory violations. This action has raised questions like How could a slaughterhouse constructed by Nagar Parishad itself be deemed illegal? Why did Nagar Parishad fail to regulate a facility it built on its own land? If the slaughterhouse was illegal, why were NOCs for meat sales issued? Why was no alternative cutting facility arranged before the demolition, leaving meat sellers vulnerable to charges of illegal activity?
The memorandum demands immediate action under Section 272 of Nagar Palika Act, 2009, to establish a legal slaughterhouse or provide a designated facility. Until a new slaughterhouse is operational, Zuberi urged the administration to ensure a temporary legal arrangement to support the livelihoods of those dependent on this trade.
