India, Aug. 11 -- The Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) has issued a notice directing meat shops to remain closed on Independence Day, drawing sharp criticism from the Opposition. NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad announced that he would host a mutton party that day in protest against the decision.

The KDMC, in its notice, stated that all slaughterhouses and licensed butchers of goats, sheep, chickens, and large animals must remain closed for 24 hours from midnight of August 14 till midnight of August 15. The civic body warned of action under the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act, 1949, if any animal is slaughtered or meat is sold during the specified period.

Deputy Commissioner (Licensing) Kanchan Gaikwad, who signed the or...