Jammu, March 25 -- National Conference leader Tanvir Sadiq on Tuesday strongly criticised the demand made by a Delhi BJP MLA to shut meat shops during the Hindu festival of Navratri, calling it an attempt to impose religious beliefs on others.

Reacting to the proposal, Sadiq asserted that India is a secular nation and should uphold the principles of religious freedom.

"This country is based on secular sentiments...Then similarly, in restaurants, carts should be shut during Ramzan. This is an imposition by a fringe element. Imposing one's religion on anyone is wrong," said Tanvir Sadiq.

Earlier, BJP MLA from Patparganj assembly constituency Ravinder Singh Negi on Tuesday urged meat shops near temples to remain closed on Tuesday and duri...