Ban on Cutting Fish in Mumbai Markets: What Shiv Sena (UBT) Said? What Mumbai Mayor Told?
Mumbai: The Shiv Sena (UBT) in Maharashtra has stated that preventing fish vendors in Mumbai's markets from cutting and selling fish at their shops is reprehensible.
Terming this move an attack on the livelihood of the Koli community, the party accused the administration of unnecessarily targeting traditional fish vendors.
Reports indicate that in certain markets, municipal corporation officials have instructed vendors—particularly Koli women—to sell only whole fish. They have also been warned that action will be taken against anyone found cutting fish at a market stall.
Justifying this ban, officials argued that fish waste creates unhygienic conditions, foul odors, and health hazards; therefore, taking this step is necessary to maintain cleanliness in public markets.
Outrage within the Koli community
This decision has sparked significant outrage within the Koli community. Many believe it constitutes a direct assault on their traditional profession.
Interfering with the livelihoods of Mumbai's fishing community
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Akhil Chitre took to social media to accuse the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-Shinde alliance government of interfering with the livelihoods of Mumbai's fishing community. He asserted that officials have no right to obstruct the centuries-old traditions of Koli fish vendors, and that the vendors will continue to operate exactly as they always have.
Concerns regarding cleanliness and hygiene are being applied selectively
Chitre argued that if fish cannot be cleaned and cut within the markets, then customers should similarly be told to take live chickens home when purchasing poultry, and live goats when purchasing mutton. He further alleged that concerns regarding cleanliness and hygiene are being applied selectively, targeting only fish markets.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader claimed that the ruling alliance is deliberately harassing the Koli community. He also alleged that certain individuals linked to the valuable land areas of Koliwada in Mumbai have their own vested interests.
No restrictions on fish cutting: Mayor
Meanwhile, Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde on Thursday clarified that the authorities have not imposed any restrictions on fish cutting at the Vakola fish market or any other fish markets across the city, amid reports circulating on social media and some media platforms claiming otherwise.
During a visit to the Vakola fish market on Thursday, Tawde interacted with fisherwomen and local vendors and assured them that they could continue their business activities without fear or hesitation.