Kannada Activists Protest Food Restrictions

A controversy has erupted over the food menu at the upcoming 87th Kannada Sahitya Sammelana in Mandya. The Kannada Sahitya Parishat's decision to restrict non-vegetarian food, along with alcohol and smoking, has been met with fierce opposition from Kannada activists and progressive organizations.

These groups argue that the organizers have no right to dictate their food choices or habits. Kannada Rakshana Vedike President H D Jiaram submitted a memorandum appealing for non-vegetarian food to be served at the event. Despite the Parishat's decision to remove non-vegetarian dishes from the menu, protests have continued, with activists consuming eggs in front of the Deputy Commissioner's office and threatening to serve non-vegetarian food at the venue.

The All India Advocates' Federation has weighed in on the issue, stating that the ban on non-vegetarian food is unconstitutional and warning of a potential legal battle. Advocate BT Vishwanath pointed out that the event is funded by taxpayer money and that a total ban on non-vegetarian food is unlawful.

The controversy has sparked a heated debate, with some accusing "manuwadis" of hijacking the Sammelana. District minister N Chaluvarayaswamy has offered to hold talks with the striking organizations, while Parishat president Mahesh Joshi has deferred to the food committee's decision. The issue remains unresolved, with the event scheduled to take place from December 20.