Somnath Temple: Supreme Court refuses to lift non-vegetarian food ban
What's the story
The Supreme Court has refused to lift a ban on non-vegetarian eateries near the Somnath Temple in Gujarat. The ban was imposed by a District Magistrate's notification on August 10, prohibiting the preparation, sale and storage of non-vegetarian food within 500 meters of the temple. Restaurant owners challenged this decision in the Gujarat High Court, where a single-judge Bench initially allowed the petition on October 30 but later restored it after an appeal from the state government.
Court's stance
Need to maintain balance...: SC
According to Bar and Bench, the Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices MM Sundresh and PB Varale, refused to interfere with the Gujarat High Court's interim order.
The court emphasized the need to maintain a balance between religious sentiments and business interests.
"We need to maintain a balance. We don't say anything," the bench remarked while asking the High Court to expedite its final verdict in this matter.
Business impact
Solicitor General opposed plea, vegetarian food allowed in corridor
Senior Advocate Huzefa Ahmedi, representing the restaurant owners, argued against permanent bans.
He said such decisions are hypersensitive and force dietary habits on people.
"80% of this country is non-vegetarian... You can't force a dietary habit," he argued.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta opposed their plea, saying the High Court will hear the matter soon and vegetarian food is permitted in a corridor provided by the government.
Upcoming verdict
Supreme Court refers to upcoming judgment on religious freedoms
The Supreme Court also referred to an upcoming Constitutional Bench judgment on religious freedoms and other fundamental rights.
"Hopefully our judgment on Article 25 will come soon. That will have a substantive bearing on this," the court said.
The plea was closed with directions for timely decision-making by the High Court within two months, with further hearings scheduled for November 25.