Pune: The ‘Malhar Certification’ scheme has been launched for mutton shops under the guidance of Fisheries and Ports Development Minister, Nilesh Rane. Majority trustees of Shri Martand Devsansthan, Jejuri have extended their support to the scheme, while one trustee has raised objection, in his personal capacity, against the use of the name ‘Malhar’.
The ‘Malhar Certification’ scheme aims to regulate and certify meat and mutton shops, ensuring they follow prescribed standards, particularly for the Hindu community.
Trust Board Discussion and Majority Decision
On March 12, the trust board of Shri Martand Devsansthan held a meeting to discuss this issue. After deliberation, the majority of trustees issued a formal statement in favor of the scheme. They stated that there was no objection to using the name ‘Malhar’, and in fact, they welcomed the initiative.
The trustees who publicly expressed support include:
Chief Trustee Abhijit Devkate
Trustee Mangesh Ghone
Trustee Advocate Vishwas Panse
Trustee Popatrao Khomne
Trustee Anil Soundade
In their joint statement, they mentioned that there was no valid reason to oppose the name ‘Malhar’ and that they stood in full support of the scheme.
Objection Raised by One Trustee
However, trustee Dr. Rajendra Khedekar expressed a contrary opinion. While he welcomed the scheme, he strongly objected to the name ‘Malhar’ being associated with it.
Dr. Khedekar has officially submitted a request to Minister Nilesh Rane, urging him to change the name of the scheme. According to him, ‘Malhar’ is another name for Lord Khandoba, the presiding deity of Maharashtra, and it is inappropriate to use the name of a revered deity for a mutton shop certification scheme. Dr. Khedekar has clarified that this objection is his personal viewpoint and not the official stance of the temple trust board.