Gujarat government defends non‑veg ban by invoking Somnath’s religious importance

Gujarat's state government reiterated its position on the non‑vegetarian food ban, pointing to the religious sanctity of Somnath as a primary reason. Officials said that the town, home to the historic Somnath Temple, draws large numbers of devotees whose sentiments favour a vegetarian environment. By linking the ban to the town's spiritual heritage, the administration aims to align public policy with local religious sensibilities. The statement underscores the government's intent to preserve the cultural atmosphere of the pilgrimage site while maintaining the existing restriction. No further details on the ban's scope or enforcement were provided in the announcement.