Ayodhya's New Non-Veg Food Ban: A Step Towards Cultural Preservation?

Ayodhya Welcomes Non-Vegetarian Food Ban

Ayodhya: On Saturday, spiritual leaders in Ayodhya expressed their support for the recent prohibition on the delivery of non-vegetarian food within a 15-kilometer radius of the Ram Temple, urging for strict enforcement of this regulation.

Mahamandaleshwar Vishnu Das remarked, “Visitors coming to the sacred city of Lord Ram for ‘darshan’ should not encounter such inconveniences or witness these activities. It has been unfortunate in the past, showing a lack of respect for the city and Lord Ram himself.”

Deveshacharya Maharaj added, “It brings us great joy that the sale and display of non-vegetarian food items have been prohibited in Ayodhya. This has been a long-standing demand of ours. Ayodhya is a cultural hub and a spiritual center attracting devotees from around the globe.”

He emphasized the importance of this decision in maintaining cultural integrity, stating, “Serving non-vegetarian food contradicts our cultural values and dignity. I fully support this initiative and hope for its rigorous implementation.”

The Ayodhya administration had announced the ban on Friday, following numerous complaints regarding online food delivery services providing non-vegetarian options in areas included in the Panchkosi Parikrama.

Officials also noted that some hotels and homestays in Ayodhya were found serving non-vegetarian food and alcohol, and these establishments have received stern warnings to cease such practices.

In May 2025, the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation had previously decided to prohibit the sale of liquor and meat along the 14-kilometer Ram Path connecting Ayodhya and Faizabad. However, residents reported that the liquor ban has not been effectively enforced, with over two dozen alcohol outlets still operational along the route.