Ayodhya

Authorities in Ayodhya Dham have imposed a strict ban on the sale and delivery of non-vegetarian food in hotels and restaurants within the holy town, including through online food delivery platforms.

Ayodhya Food Commissioner Manik Chandra Singh said action would be taken against hotels and delivery platforms found violating the order.

“Non-vegetarian food has been banned from being served in hotels and restaurants in Ayodhya Dham. We have also found that online deliveries were continuing through various platforms. We are ensuring that meat is neither served nor delivered in these areas. Strict action will be taken against violators,” Singh told ANI.

The decision, officials said, has been taken in view of Ayodhya’s religious and cultural significance and to respect the sentiments of pilgrims visiting the temple town.

The move was welcomed by some hotel operators. Shubham Srivastava, a general manager of a local hotel, said the ban would help preserve the sanctity of Ayodhya.

“Consumption of non-vegetarian food is prohibited in our religious traditions. We appreciate this decision and will ensure that non-veg food is not served in our hotel,” he said.

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The announcement comes amid a surge in pilgrim footfall following the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, with authorities focusing on maintaining the city’s religious character and managing facilities for devotees.