Restaurant owner among three arrested, police investigations continue
NEW DELHI — A controversy has erupted in Rajasthan’s Kota city after a poster showing the idol of Lord Ganesha alongside non-vegetarian food went viral on social media during Ganesh Chaturthi on Wednesday (August 27). The incident sparked protests from Hindu organisations, notably the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal.
According to reports, the poster was uploaded late at night on the Instagram account of a local non-vegetarian restaurant. Soon after it went viral, workers of VHP and Bajrang Dal rushed to the area, claiming that the post hurt Hindu sentiments and could incite communal unrest.
“Such posts are completely unacceptable and hurt the faith of millions of Hindus,” said Ramesh Sharma, a local VHP leader. “We demand strict action against the people responsible and the closure of the restaurant that posted this.”
Kota City Superintendent of Police, Tejaswini Gautam, confirmed that the police responded promptly. “We have arrested three individuals — the poster maker, the restaurant owner, and the owner of the poster company. A minor who was involved in uploading the poster was brought to the police station but later released,” she said.
SP Gautam further clarified, “Action will be taken against all accused except the minor according to the law, and strict legal sections will be applied.”
During the protest, VHP and Bajrang Dal workers recited the Hanuman Chalisa on the spot while demanding justice. The protest, although tense, ended without any major disruption, and police ensured that law and order were maintained.
Many residents expressed shock over the incident. “Ganesh Chaturthi is a sacred festival,” said Anjali Verma, a local resident. “Using the image of Lord Ganesha with non-veg items is disrespectful. It is good that the police took quick action.”
Meanwhile, the restaurant owner declined to comment, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the matter. The incident highlights the sensitivity around religious symbols and the potential for communal tension, particularly during major festivals.
As of now, peace has returned to the area, but the episode has left residents and religious groups alert to social media content that could inflame sentiments.
