New Delhi, August 29, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) International President Alok Kumar on Saturday clarified that the organisation has not issued any guideline restricting the sale or consumption of meat at or around Durga Puja pandals in West Bengal, saying the remarks that triggered the controversy were a personal suggestion made by a member during a press conference.
The clarification came amid reports of alleged VHP guidelines concerning food stalls at Durga Puja venues in the state.
Speaking to IANS, Kumar said the VHP had neither issued directions on arrangements at Durga Puja pandals nor claimed any authority to do so.
“Vishva Hindu Parishad has not issued any directions regarding the arrangements at Durga Puja pandals (in West Bengal). We know that we don’t have any right to issue such directions and we don’t make such claims,” he said.
Kumar said the VHP had hosted a meeting of Durga Puja organisers in Bengal as part of its practice of holding consultations ahead of major festivals. He said discussions at the meeting focused on ensuring that worship of Goddess Durga was conducted according to tradition and that the atmosphere at community pandals remained centred on devotion and harmony.
He specifically denied that vegetarian or non-vegetarian food was discussed during the meeting.
“There was no mention of vegetarian, non-vegetarian or any kind of food during that meeting,” Kumar said.
He explained that during a subsequent press conference, Swami Nirgunananda, while responding to a reporter’s question, had suggested maintaining cleanliness and hygiene at food stalls inside the pandals. Kumar stressed that this was the Swami’s personal view and had not been part of the earlier meeting.
“Therefore, I want to clarify that no decision has been taken regarding the consumption of vegetarian or non-vegetarian food (at Durga Puja Pandals in Bengal). There is no guideline and no opinion was conveyed regarding this, at the meeting,” Kumar said.
He nevertheless emphasised the importance of cleanliness, hygiene and adherence to traditional practices at the pandals.
Kumar also said the VHP had advised organisers to sing the full version of ‘Vande Mataram’ on one day during the Durga Puja celebrations and include worship of Bharat Mata.
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