The right-wing group Vishwa Hindu Parishad has denied reports that claimed that they are asking Bengalis follow a satvik vegetarian diet during the Durga Puja. The clarification came amid a raging ongoing discussion on social media on the matter.
The advice, they said, was about the puja themes and general cleanliness at the puja grounds.
“We wish to clarify that we have issued no such directive. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad does not issue fatwas,” VHP leader said
“The VHP wants to make it clear that it is not against theme-based Durga Puja. “We wish to clarify that we have issued no such directive. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad does not issue fatwas,” he added. “We want the vicinity in and around the Durga puja pandals be kept clean. Food stalls should maintain cleanliness,” he added. This is the culture and tradition of our Bengal. During Durga Puja, while performing rituals, sacrifices are offered, and non-vegetarian food is consumed. Non-vegetarian food means there is a demand for mutton. “Durga Puja is a sensitive issue, so everyone should be cautious before making any comments. Durga puja is the beauty of Bengal, in which everyone can participate…
Neither did we discuss this (food) issue during that meeting,” he said. Sarkar also said the VHP “has already made its stand clear that there should be no ban on veg or non-veg food habits”. Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said: “Durga Puja is Bengal’s identity. It is our practice that no-one eats non-veg food inside puja pandals,” said Trinamool’s Kunal Ghosh.
