India orders closure of meat shops on Independence Day, sparking food freedom debate.

The Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation in India has ordered the temporary closure of meat shops and slaughterhouses on August 15, Independence Day, a move in place since 1988. Political parties NCP-SP and Shiv Sena argue the ban infringes on food freedom and cultural traditions. NCP MLA Jitendra Awhad plans a mutton party on the holiday to protest the decision.