Pune, 16 August 2025: On the occasion of Independence Day, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Dr. Amol Devalekar distributed 1,000 kilograms of chicken among 1,000 families in the Pune Cantonment Board ward. The act was carried out despite a notice issued by Samarth Police, after several municipal bodies, including Pune, had banned the sale of meat on the day.
Dr. Devalekar said the distribution was intended to protest what he called an unnecessary restriction. He argued that Independence Day should not be limited to hoisting a flag but should also reflect the freedom of people to live and eat as they choose.
He also recalled that in 1988, a meat sale ban was imposed only once, when Independence Day coincided with a religious festival, but stressed that such restrictions should not become a routine.
This year, Independence Day was observed on the same day as Krishna Janmashtami, which led to criticism of Devalekar’s move. While some saw it as a political statement on personal freedom, others called it an insensitive act that overlooked the significance of the festival.
