Officials from the Sikkim Ecclesiastical Department carried out inspections across Gangtok and surrounding areas on February 21 to enforce a ban on animal slaughter during upcoming Buddhist holy days. The inspection team, led by Joint Director Unhen Tshering Bhutia, visited shops and other business establishments to check compliance with a departmental circular and to inform the public about the restrictions.
The drive follows a departmental notification calling for strict observance of the slaughter ban during the first month of the Tibetan calendar. According to the circular, the holy days include Chothul Dawa (1st to 15th day) and Nangang (30th day), which will be observed from February 18 to March 3, and again on March 18. Officials said the inspections are meant to ensure adherence throughout this period.
During the visits, officers engaged with shopkeepers and members of the public to raise awareness about the cultural and religious importance of observing the holy days. Business owners were urged to cooperate fully with enforcement efforts; the circular did not specify penalties in the notice circulated with the inspection team.
Authorities described the campaign as an effort to promote respect for the State’s religious sentiments and to keep communities informed about traditional observances, with monitoring to continue while the holy days are in effect.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/sikkim/story/ecclesiastical-department-conducts-inspections-to-enforce-slaughter-ban-in-gangtok-1349742-2026-02-21?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-02-21 22:42:00
