The Maharashtra government is not interested in regulating people's food choices, according to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Fadnavis addressed the controversy surrounding the closure of abattoirs and meat shops in some cities on Independence Day, describing it as "unnecessary".

Several civic bodies in Maharashtra have ordered the closure of slaughterhouses and meat shops on August 15, sparking controversy. Fadnavis stated that the state government is not interested in knowing who eats what, as they have many other issues to address. He also condemned those who called vegetarians impotent, demanding that such "nonsense" stop.

Fadnavis claimed to be unaware of a 37-year-old government resolution (GR) that allowed for the closure of abattoirs on certain days, including Independence Day. He noted that municipal corporations typically make such decisions on their own. He mentioned learning about the GR through the media and pointed out that similar decisions were made when Uddhav Thackeray was Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has also expressed his disapproval of the meat ban. Pawar stated that it is wrong to impose such bans, especially in major cities with diverse populations. He acknowledged that people might accept restrictions based on faith-related sensitivities on occasions like Ashadhi Ekadashi, Mahashivratri, and Mahavir Jayanti. However, he argued against imposing such orders on Maharashtra Day, Independence Day, and Republic Day. He even announced that he would host a mutton party.

Municipal corporations in Nagpur, Nashik, Malegaon, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Kalyan-Dombivli have ordered the closure of meat shops on August 15. Some have extended the closure to other days in observance of Hindu and Jain festivals.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), led by Ajit Pawar, has questioned the closure, while their ally in the ruling Mahayuti coalition, the BJP, defended the move, citing the 1988 GR. Opposition parties have also criticized the decision. The BJP stated that the policy of keeping abattoirs shut on Independence Day was first implemented in 1988 when Sharad Pawar was the Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi also opposed the decision, calling it unconstitutional and questioning the link between meat consumption and Independence Day celebrations.

Meanwhile, Aaditya Thackeray demanded the suspension of the KDMC commissioner, asserting that it is not their job to decide citizens' dietary choices. He stated that what people eat on Independence Day is their right and freedom and that he would definitely eat non-vegetarian food.

An order mandating a complete halt to the slaughter of animals and sale of meat on August 15 was issued by NMC Deputy Commissioner (Solid Waste Management) Rajesh Bhagat. Violators will face strict action from the municipal corporation's flying squad.