Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : Dipankar terms Bihar meat ban ‘UP model’ politics, flags impact on Muslim vendors and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
In Bihar’s urban and semi-urban markets, a significant proportion of small-scale meat sellers are Muslim vendors who depend on daily cash turnover. Critics argue that sudden enforcement, without adequate alternative infrastructure or simplified licensing, could disproportionately disrupt their livelihoods — especially during Ramadan, when earnings often help sustain families for months.
Bhattacharya accused the state government of attempting to replicate what he termed the “bulldozer politics and hatred” associated with Uttar Pradesh, alleging that minorities and marginalised sections could bear the brunt.
“Attempts to replicate the UP model of bulldozer politics and hatred in Bihar, targeting the lives and livelihoods of minorities and marginalised sections, will be firmly resisted,” he said.
Calling the measure “arbitrary and divisive”, the CPI(ML) leader demanded its immediate withdrawal.
The Bihar government has maintained that the directive is aimed at improving hygiene, regulating unlicensed sales and maintaining public order. However, with the timing intersecting with Ramadan and concerns mounting among Muslim vendors and small traders, the issue is rapidly evolving into a broader political flashpoint in the state.