After the local administration in Ayodhya imposed a complete ban on the sale and online delivery of non-vegetarian food within a 15-kilometre radius of the Ram Temple, a renewed debate has emerged in Odisha over calls to make Puri a meat- and liquor-free holy city.
Saints, servitors of the Srimandir in Puri, and scholars have intensified their demand, urging the state government to take firm measures to preserve the sanctity and dignity of Lord Jagannath Dham—one of Hinduism’s four sacred Dhams. Devotees argue that if such restrictions are enforceable in Ayodhya, there is no justification for allowing the open sale of non-vegetarian food in Puri.
The debate recalls a promise made by the Law Minister on June 8 last year, to make the stretch of Bada Danda from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple free of non-vegetarian food and to declare a two-kilometre radius around the temple liquor-free. However, the lack of visible action has led to widespread resentment, with many questioning the status of the commitment.
Today, rows of fast-food stalls selling chicken and mutton line both sides of Bada Danda, extending close to the Gundicha Temple. Non-vegetarian trade also thrives in nearby areas such as Mochi Sahi, College Road, Red Cross Road, and Masani Chandi Chhak, especially on Wednesdays and Sundays. Even the sea beach road reportedly hosts such vendors, undermining the spiritual atmosphere of the city.
Senior servitors and mahants have expressed concern that pilgrims visiting Puri with deep religious sentiments are disturbed by the smell and open sale of non-vegetarian food. Many visitors from other sacred sites like Ayodhya, Vrindavan, Dwarka, and Tirupati reportedly express shock at Puri’s situation.
"At least the areas around the temple, the seaside, and the holy ponds should be immediately free from non-vegetarian food," said senior servitor Ganesh Mahasuara.
"Puri is the centre of all spiritual places. Meat, fish, and other non-vegetarian foods are openly sold on Bada Danda. We request that such practices be completely stopped in this holy city," added Nebala Das mutt mahant Ramacharan Das Maharaj.
For over two decades, the demand for a non-vegetarian-free Puri has persisted. Since 1999, 32 organisations under the Odisha Yuva Chetana Parishad have actively campaigned for this cause. With the comparison to Ayodhya reigniting public sentiment, pressure on the state government to act decisively is mounting.
Meanwhile, the Executive Officer of the Puri Municipality, Abhimanyu Behera, stated that the administration will enforce restrictions once a clear and strict directive is issued by the government.
"Non-vegetarian food is sold on Bada Danda. The administration will take firm action once a government directive is received," he said.
