Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused Congress leader Ajay Rai of hosting a fish feast in Ayodhya during the holy month of Sawan [1].
The dispute highlights the deep intersection of religious observance and political rivalry in Ayodhya, where dietary choices during sacred periods often become markers of faith and heritage [1], [2].
Adityanath said the alleged event demonstrated "duplicity" on the part of the Congress party [2]. He said that serving fish during Sawan—a period traditionally associated with vegetarianism and devotion—disrespects Hindu religious sentiments and the cultural heritage of the city [2], [3].
Ajay Rai denied the allegations [3]. Rai said the Bharatiya Janata Party should produce photographic evidence of the feast to prove the claims [3].
The controversy follows a visit by Rai to the Ram Temple [2]. Adityanath said the contrast between the temple visit and the alleged feast showed a lack of sincerity toward the faith [2].
Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera responded by linking the BJP's focus on the feast to other political issues, including paper leaks [4]. Khera said the ruling party was using the row to distract from administrative failures [4].
The clash reflects a broader pattern of political friction in Uttar Pradesh, where the BJP often emphasizes the protection of religious traditions against perceived slights by opposition parties [1], [3].
“"duplicity"”
This confrontation underscores how dietary restrictions during the month of Sawan are leveraged as political tools in India. By framing the alleged feast as a sign of religious disrespect, the BJP reinforces its image as the defender of Hindu traditions, while the Congress party's demand for evidence attempts to frame the accusation as a politically motivated fabrication.
