Members of the Bajrang Dal and allied organizations smeared black ink on boards displaying Mayor Rai’s photograph, drew a beard on her image, and raised slogans against the municipal administration. Protesters also recited the Hanuman Chalisa outside the residence as part of their symbolic demonstration.
The demonstrators alleged that a large-scale beef smuggling network has been operating in Bhopal for an extended period, and no significant steps have been taken to dismantle it. The protesters insisted that the mayor’s direct intervention is necessary to curb illegal slaughterhouse operations within municipal limits.
The agitation referred to a case on December 17, 2025, when a truck carrying a large quantity of suspected meat was seized near the Police Headquarters (PHQ). Slaughterhouse operator Aslam Chamda was arrested and jailed in connection with that seizure. Protesters claimed that this was only a single link in a broader network that remains active.
Police confirmed that the protest was conducted without official permission. ACP Ankita Khatarakar said legal action would be taken against those involved under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Despite this, the protesters declared that their demonstration would continue until the municipal corporation and law enforcement take action against the alleged masterminds of the beef trade.
Hindu Utsav Samiti and other groups accused the civic body of either negligence or tacit support for the illegal trade. They warned that such operations cannot thrive without knowledge of the municipal authorities and urged the mayor to ensure strict enforcement of regulations concerning slaughterhouses.
Mayor Malti Rai has not issued any statement regarding the protest. Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely to prevent escalation and maintain law and order in the area.
The protest reflects increasing public scrutiny over illegal meat trade in urban centers and underscores the pressure on municipal officials to enforce regulations effectively. How the administration responds could influence both public perception and ongoing enforcement measures in the city.
