The Ayodhya administration has taken a decisive step to enforce religious and cultural norms in the temple town, imposing a strict ban on the online delivery of non-vegetarian food within a significant radius of the revered Ram Temple. This move comes in response to persistent complaints about digital food platforms supplying meat-based dishes in areas considered part of the sacred 'Panchkosi Parikrama' circuit.
Administration Cracks Down on Restricted Items
On Friday, authorities officially prohibited the delivery of non-vegetarian food within a 15-kilometer radius of the Ram Temple. The decision was announced following reports that certain hotels and homestays in Ayodhya were also providing non-vegetarian meals and alcoholic beverages to visitors. These establishments have now been issued a rigorous warning to cease such practices immediately.
Assistant Food Commissioner Manik Chandra Singh stated that the new delivery ban was necessary as tourists continued to source restricted items through digital apps. "Following the complaints, the ban on online non-vegetarian food delivery has been imposed. All hotels, shopkeepers and delivery companies have been informed, and continuous monitoring will be conducted to ensure compliance," Singh added, as reported by PTI.
Persistent Challenges with Existing Bans
This latest order highlights the ongoing struggle to fully implement previous resolutions aimed at preserving the sanctity of the area. Back in May 2025, the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation passed a resolution to outlaw the sale of liquor and meat along the 14-km Ram Path, the primary route connecting Ayodhya and Faizabad.
However, residents have noted that the alcohol ban remains largely unfulfilled. Over two dozen licensed outlets continue to operate along this stretch nine months later. A municipal representative explained the delay, noting that while the civic body successfully shuttered meat shops on Ram Path, including those in Faizabad, acting against liquor vendors requires specific authorization from the district administration.
Devotional Traditions Continue Amidst New Rules
The enforcement of these bans coincides with continued devotional activities in Ayodhya. The town recently celebrated the second anniversary of the Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Temple. On the final day of the Second Pratishtha Dwadashi ceremony on January 2, devotees performed the ritual of Tula Dan (weighing oneself against offerings) at Sita Rasoi.
Devotees from distant places came to Sita Rasoi for this ancient practice, donating offerings equivalent to their weight. Anand Shukla, manager of Sita Rasoi, explained the tradition, stating, "People perform Tula Dan for their well-being. Lord Ram and Lord Krishna also performed Tula Dan for the welfare of the people and for their own well-being, and this tradition continues." The offerings include rice, lentils, ghee, spices, vegetables, and fruits, all given with complete devotion, and a community kitchen (Bhandara) operates at the site.
The Ayodhya administration's latest action underscores its commitment to maintaining the religious character of the temple town, balancing modern services like online food delivery with traditional values and long-standing regulations.
