Non-Veg Food/Alcohol Banned Within 15 km of Ayodhya Ram Temple

Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh — In a significant move to maintain the spiritual ambiance around the Ram Temple, the Ayodhya administration has banned the sale and delivery of non-vegetarian food within a 15-kilometre radius of the sacred site. The order expands to include major online food delivery platforms and local establishments, aiming to uphold religious sentiments and cultural norms.

Officials said the decision follows numerous complaints that food delivery apps were supplying non-veg meals in the Panchkosi Parikrama area — a high-significance pilgrimage circuit around the temple. Authorities have issued formal notices to delivery services, hotels, restaurants, vendors, and homestays to comply immediately or face penalties.

Ayodhya’s Assistant Food Commissioner, Manik Chandra Singh, confirmed that despite earlier restrictions, non-vegetarian food continued to reach visitors through online orders. “Following repeated complaints, the ban on online delivery of non-vegetarian food has been implemented,” he said, adding that strict monitoring will ensure adherence.

The administration also warned hospitality businesses against serving non-veg dishes and alcoholic beverages, issuing stern advisories to establishments within the restricted zone.

This order builds on earlier efforts by the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation, which had already curbed the sale of meat and liquor along the Ram Path connecting Ayodhya and Faizabad. However, enforcement of those measures showed inconsistencies, prompting the latest comprehensive ban.

Supporters of the policy say it reinforces Ayodhya’s identity as a devotional and cultural hub, while some local business owners express concern about the economic impact.