Koraput administration imposes 1 day ban on non-vegetarian food sales on Republic Day

The Koraput district administration has announced a complete ban on the sale of non-vegetarian food items on Republic Day, January 26, 2026. The decision has been taken as part of the administrative guidelines to observe the national occasion with uniformity across the district.

Koraput District Collector Manoj Satyaban Mahajan has issued a formal directive to all Block Development Officers, Tahsildars, and Executive Officers, instructing them to ensure strict compliance with the order. As per the notification, the sale of non-vegetarian items, including meat, chicken, fish, and eggs, will remain prohibited throughout the day on January 26.

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The Collector has further directed district-level officials to maintain close supervision and take necessary enforcement measures to ensure that the ban is effectively implemented across urban and rural areas. The administration has also appealed to residents to observe Republic Day by opting for vegetarian food as a mark of respect for the national celebration.

This decision marks the first instance of such a restriction being imposed in Koraput on Republic Day and has triggered mixed reactions among the public. While some residents have supported the move, citing the importance of following administrative guidelines, others have questioned the rationale behind the ban.

Several locals expressed concern, stating that Republic Day is a national festival rather than a religious occasion and is traditionally marked by family gatherings. Critics suggested that instead of a blanket ban, the administration could have regulated the operation of non-vegetarian food outlets to manage crowding and maintain order.

Despite differing opinions, the district administration has maintained that the directive must be followed, and officials have been tasked with ensuring smooth implementation of the order on Republic Day.