Is West Bengal's New Government Really Taking Eggs Off the Menu for Kids?

Derek O'Brien of the Trinamool Congress has raised alarms over the BJP's plans to exclude eggs from the midday meal program in West Bengal. He argues that this move deprives children of necessary nutrition while pushing a vegetarian agenda. The controversy escalated after the BJP's budget presentation, where ISKCON was mentioned as a partner in meal preparation. O'Brien's comments highlight the political implications of food choices in schools, suggesting that the new government is using nutrition as a political tool. This situation has sparked significant debate about dietary policies and children's health in the state.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 24, 2026, 21:03 IST

TMC's Derek O'Brien Criticizes BJP's Midday Meal Changes

New Delhi: Derek O'Brien, the joint secretary of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has voiced strong criticism against the BJP regarding claims that eggs may be removed from the midday meal program in West Bengal. He accused the new administration of denying essential nutrition to children and attempting to enforce a vegetarian diet across the state.

During the presentation of the BJP's first budget on Monday, West Bengal's Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta mentioned that ISKCON would play a role in the preparation and distribution of meals under the midday meal initiative.

Reports indicate that ISKCON's proposed menu would substitute eggs with alternatives that provide plant-based protein.

O'Brien took to X to express his concerns, stating, "After the fish-eating spectacle during the election campaign, the Gujarat Gymkhana finally shows its true colors. The new BJP government is at work in Bengal."

He further claimed that while eggs are being politicized against opponents, children are being deprived of this vital food source in their school meals.

"Use eggs as a weapon against opponents, but deny children their nutrition by removing eggs from midday meals. This imposition of vegetarianism will not be accepted in Bengal," the TMC leader asserted.