The P-South ward office of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has revoked the permission granted for goat sacrifice on the premises of a housing society in Goregaon. The decision was based on the availability of an authorized slaughterhouse within a one-kilometer radius of the society.
Details of the Incident
The building in Satellite Garden Phase 2 at Gokuldham, Goregaon East, had initially received permission on May 25. However, the ward office later cited a letter issued by the assistant commissioner (market) on May 20, which reached the office on May 26. The letter included a list of 15 authorized locations for religious animal slaughter and referred to a licensed mutton shop on Khadakpada Film City Road in Malad East, located just one kilometer from the housing society. The shop's license had been renewed until March 31 next year, and residents were advised to use this facility for Bakr Eid sacrifices.
Cancellation and Political Intervention
The cancellation letter was addressed to the chairman and secretary of the housing society. BJP corporator Priti Satam had written to the ward's assistant commissioner, demanding that no slaughter take place within the society. She emphasized that, according to the civic body's policy, factors such as hygiene, public health, traffic management, and the sensitivity of areas near schools, hospitals, and religious places must be considered when permitting animal slaughter. She noted that last year too, following complaints from citizens, the administration had revoked similar permissions.
Police Deployment and Community Response
Dindoshi police personnel were deployed at the housing society on Wednesday. A senior police official confirmed that BMC cancelled the permission later in the day. This was acceptable to residents. There was no untoward incident.
Broader Implications
BJP functionary Kirit Somaiya claimed that an application seeking permission for slaughter at a Ghatkopar housing society was rejected, and all goats on the premises were removed. In a separate incident, BMC additional commissioner Ashwini Joshi received an anonymous complaint about 45 goats being kept illegally at a building in Sewri. A joint inspection with police was conducted, resulting in the seizure of the goats, which were sent to the Deonar abattoir. Unauthorized temporary sheds were also demolished.
