Controversy in Bengal over Dhirendra Shastri’s remarks on non-vegetarian food; Congress files police complaint

September 8, 2026

Kolkata:  A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal following Bageshwar Dham chief Dhirendra Shastri’s appeal to Bengalis to abstain from non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja. The Bengal unit of the Congress party has lodged a police complaint against him, alleging that his remarks have hurt the religious sentiments of Bengalis and could disrupt social harmony.

Allegations regarding remarks at Howrah event; demand for action

A complaint submitted to the Officer-in-Charge of Bhawanipore Police Station by the South Kolkata District Congress Committee claims that Dhirendra Shastri made allegedly objectionable remarks during an event held in Howrah on September 5.

District Congress President Pradip Prasad has urged the police to register an FIR and take necessary legal action in the matter. The Congress alleges that such comments regarding religious and social matters could incite tension among the public.

Dhirendra Shastri, also known as ‘Bageshwar Baba’, had reportedly appealed to Bengalis to give up non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja. He went as far as labeling those who consume non-vegetarian food on religious occasions as ‘hypocrites’ and ‘impostors’. This statement triggered a political backlash in the state.

Non-vegetarian food is part of Bengal’s tradition: Minister

Amidst this controversy, State Government Minister Dilip Ghosh stated that consuming non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja is neither unusual nor a matter of dispute in Bengal. He noted that certain Durga Puja traditions in the state involve the ritual sacrifice of goats and the consumption of the meat as *Prasad* (offering).

Ghosh emphasized that every individual should have the freedom to eat according to their preference. He clarified that while he personally does not consume non-vegetarian food other than fish, no restrictions should be imposed on another person’s dietary choices.

BJP leaders also distance themselves from the statement

Some leaders from the Bengal unit of the BJP have also distanced themselves from Dhirendra Shastri’s remarks. Leaders believe that such statements could be perceived as an interference in Bengal’s traditional culinary culture.

Ghosh also questioned whether Dhirendra Shastri’s followers could claim that they do not consume fish or meat. He remarked that while saints express views based on their own beliefs and religious perspectives, advocating a vegetarian diet as being better for health is a different matter altogether.