Mutton Controversy Heats Up Bihar Politics

In the midst of the heated Bihar election campaign, a new controversy has emerged involving the menu at an NDA meeting. Tejashwi Yadav, the Leader of the Opposition and RJD leader, has criticized the ruling JDU-BJP alliance for serving mutton during a meeting held on a sacred day in the Hindu month of Sawan. This month is considered holy by many Hindus, who traditionally abstain from consuming non-vegetarian food during this period.

Tejashwi Yadav’s Accusations Against BJP

Tejashwi Yadav shared a video from the NDA meeting in Patna, highlighting a pot labeled ‘Mutton Roganjosh’ in the dining area. He accused BJP leaders of hypocrisy, pointing out that while they criticize opposition leaders for their dietary choices during holy months, they themselves indulge in non-vegetarian food. Yadav specifically targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that BJP ministers and MLAs were enjoying mutton with his blessing.

BJP’s Response to Allegations

In response to Yadav’s accusations, BJP spokesperson Manoj Sharma questioned the relevance of focusing on the menu instead of developmental issues in Bihar. He suggested that both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options might have been available and criticized Yadav for making a fuss over the matter.

Previous Incidents of Food Politics

This is not the first time food politics has stirred controversy in Bihar. Last week, Yadav criticized Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh for hosting a mutton party, accusing the NDA of double standards. In 2023, visuals of RJD patriarch Lalu Prasad Yadav hosting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for a mutton meal during Sawan also drew criticism from BJP leaders.

Implications for Bihar Elections

The ongoing debate over food choices reflects deeper political tensions in Bihar as parties vie for voter support. The controversy highlights how cultural and religious sentiments are being leveraged in political discourse, potentially influencing voter perceptions and decisions as elections approach.