Kerala Government Clarifies No Ban on Non-Vegetarian Food at Raj Bhavan

Thiruvananthapuram, October 24 (Daily Kiran) : The Kerala government has officially denied reports claiming that a ban on non-vegetarian food was imposed at the Raj Bhavan, the official residence of Governor Om Prakash Mathur. The clarification from the Lok Bhavan emphasized that the restriction applies solely to the kitchen serving the Governor, which is entirely vegetarian.

Officials confirmed that there are no limitations on the food choices of Lok Bhavan staff or visitors, who are free to bring and consume their preferred meals.

This clarification comes amidst political controversy sparked by reports alleging that Mathur directed the kitchen not to prepare or serve meat. Both the ruling Congress party and the opposition CPI(M) criticized the Governor, accusing him of promoting an agenda aligned with the Sangh Parivar.

AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal remarked that the decision was excessive and argued that a Governor should not impose personal dietary preferences on others. He highlighted Kerala’s diverse culinary culture and emphasized that individuals should have the freedom to choose their food. Venugopal stated that attempts to restrict traditional eating habits violate constitutional rights and that a person in a constitutional position should not force their food choices on others.

Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala also condemned any efforts to dictate people’s dietary options, asserting that the freedom to choose what to eat, wear, or speak is a fundamental aspect of personal liberty.

CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan accused the Sangh Parivar of attempting to politicize food choices. He affirmed that in a democratic nation, everyone should have the right to choose their eating habits.

This controversy emerged shortly after Mathur took the oath of office as Kerala’s 29th Governor.