India
Gujarat High Court Reinstates Ban on Non‑Veg Sales Near Somnath Temple
The Gujarat High Court on Friday reversed a single‑judge decision that had lifted restrictions on the sale of non‑vegetarian food along pilgrimage routes near the Somnath temple. Justice Nisha M. Thakore had earlier that day allowed petitions from hotel and restaurant owners in Prabhas Patan, Gir Somnath district, and set aside a district magistrate’s notification issued on 10 August 2026. The notification barred the preparation, storage and sale of non‑vegetarian food within a 500‑metre radius of the Somnath Mahadev temple and along six roads connecting religious sites such as Bhalka Tirth, Bhidiya Circle, Shankh Circle, Safari Circle, Gita Mandir and Hamirji Circle.
The owners argued that the ban infringed their fundamental right to conduct a lawful business and earn a livelihood. The state government countered that the right to operate a business does not grant unrestricted activity in all locations, especially in areas of religious significance. It maintained that the restrictions were necessary to protect Somnath’s religious importance and the flow of pilgrims.
After the government sought urgent intervention, a division bench comprising Chief Justice Manash Ranjan Pathak and Justice Nirzar Desai reinstated the restrictions. The ban will remain in force pending further proceedings.
In a separate case, the High Court earlier questioned a four‑month closure order issued by the Radhanpur municipality against about 30 meat, poultry and fish shops, slaughterhouses and restaurants that served non‑vegetarian food during Chaturmas. The municipality had cited the visit of Jain monks and expected devotees as the reason for the closure. The order was withdrawn after the court questioned its legal basis, and the petitioners subsequently withdrew their case.