Why Bihar government wants to ban open sale of meat, fish near schools and religious places

The Bihar government has decided to ban the open sale of meat and fish near schools, religious places, and crowded public areas.

Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha announced the move on Monday, saying the decision was taken after discussions within the Urban Development Department and consultations with intellectuals under the Jankalyan Samvad programme.

The reason

According to Sinha, the step was taken in view of concerns related to hygiene, public order, and social harmony. He said the decision is part of the new government’s broader effort to improve civic standards and create a cleaner environment.

“From a health perspective, for social interaction, and to prevent violent tendencies among children, we will ban the sale of meat and fish near educational and religious institutions, and in crowded open spaces,” Sinha was quoted as saying by ANI.

He clarified that the government is not against any particular food choice but wants regulations to ensure public decorum and cleanliness.

“People should follow the rules beyond this. We have no problem with the food, but strict measures have been taken to ensure that social interaction and the spirit of purity are not violated, no one's sentiments are hurt, and the environment is not polluted,” he added.

The move is in line with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s governance roadmap under the Saat Nischay-3 programme, which aims to improve ease of living and ensure dignity for citizens.

“Following the formation of the new government in the state on 20 November 2025, the programmes of Saat Nischay-3 have been implemented. Under the seventh resolve, ‘Sabka Samman-Jeevan Aasaan’ (Ease of Living), we are continuously working to make the daily lives of all citizens easier. In this regard, several important decisions have also been taken to ensure dignity and convenience for pedestrians. Bihar is advancing rapidly on the path of progress,” the chief minister posted on X.