Ayodhya seers welcome ban on non-veg food delivery near Ram Temple, seek strict enforcement

Ayodhya: Sadhus and religious leaders in Ayodhya have welcomed the administration’s decision to ban the delivery of non-vegetarian food within a 15-km radius of the Ram Temple, saying the move was necessary to preserve the city’s spiritual and cultural character.

Several seers said devotees visiting Ayodhya for darshan should not be confronted with activities that go against the sanctity of the holy town. Mahamandaleshwar Vishnu Das said such practices had been taking place earlier, which he described as unfortunate and disrespectful to Lord Ram and the sacred city.

Deveshacharya Maharaj also supported the decision, calling it a long-standing demand of the religious community. He said Ayodhya is a global centre of spirituality and culture, attracting devotees from across the world, and the sale or display of non-vegetarian food undermines the city’s traditions.

“In a city like Ayodhya, serving non-vegetarian food goes against our cultural values and dignity. This decision brings great satisfaction, and it must be implemented strictly,” he said.

The ban was announced by the Ayodhya administration on Friday following repeated complaints that online food delivery platforms were supplying non-vegetarian items in areas falling under the Panchkosi Parikrama. Officials also said some hotels and homestays were found serving non-vegetarian food and alcohol to guests. Such establishments have been issued strict warnings to immediately stop these practices.

In May 2025, the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation had also decided to prohibit the sale of liquor and meat along the 14-km Ram Path connecting Ayodhya and Faizabad. However, local residents have alleged that the liquor ban has not been effectively enforced, with more than two dozen alcohol outlets still operating along the route.

(with inputs from agencies)