Palitana in Gujarat Becomes World’s First City to Ban Non-Vegetarian Food
In a historic move, Palitana, located in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, has become the first city in the world to declare non-vegetarian food illegal. This decision comes after significant protests from the Jain community, who regard the city as a sacred pilgrimage site.
Palitana, often referred to as the Jain Temple Town, is renowned for its spiritual significance, with over 800 temples, including the prominent Adinath Temple, situated around the Shatrunjaya Hills. The city holds immense reverence among Jains, making the consumption and sale of meat particularly contentious.
The call to ban non-vegetarian food emerged from protests led by nearly 200 Jain monks, who demanded the closure of approximately 250 butcher shops in the city. Following their appeals, the sale and consumption of meat, as well as the butchering of animals, were declared illegal and punishable by law.
This regulation is not isolated to Palitana. In Rajkot, another city in Gujarat, authorities have also imposed restrictions on the preparation and public display of non-vegetarian food. Similar orders have been issued in Vadodara, Junagadh, and Ahmedabad. Proponents argue that the public display of meat can offend sensitivities and negatively impact individuals, while Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel stated that these regulations also aim to reduce traffic congestion.
Vegetarianism in Gujarat has deep roots, epitomized by Mahatma Gandhi, whose ideology continues to influence millions. Although Gandhi once consumed meat during his school days, he remained a devout vegetarian for the rest of his life, respecting his parents’ Vaishnav Hindu beliefs.
In Gujarat, vegetarianism is prevalent due to the dominant Vaishnav Hindu culture. The state’s population is composed of 88.5% Hindus and about 1% Jains, with Muslims and Christians making up 10%. This cultural backdrop has significantly influenced the widespread acceptance and adherence to vegetarianism in the region.
