Asaduddin Owaisi, the president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), has strongly criticized the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation's (GHMC) order to close slaughterhouses and meat shops on Independence Day. He called the move "callous and unconstitutional."

The Controversy and Owaisi's Stance-

Owaisi, who is a Member of Parliament from Hyderabad, expressed his disapproval on social media. He argued that there's no logical connection between celebrating Independence Day and imposing a meat ban. He highlighted that such bans violate the fundamental rights of people, including the right to liberty, privacy, livelihood, culture, nutrition, and religion. He also pointed out that a significant majority of Telangana's population consumes meat.

The GHMC's order also includes a ban for August 16 on account of Janmashtami. Similar bans have been issued by municipal corporations in other parts of the country, particularly in Maharashtra, which has also drawn criticism from other political leaders like Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray.Vogaan Men's T-Shirt and Shorts Set | Top & Shorts Night Suits Set | Night Wear for Men

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A legal challenge has been filed against the GHMC's order. A writ petition was submitted to the Telangana High Court, which has since sought an explanation from the GHMC regarding the legal basis for the directive. The petitioner claims the order, issued under Section 533(b) of the GHMC Act, 1955, is a "colorable exercise of authority" as it does not grant the Commissioner the power to shut down lawful businesses without valid reasons.