Amritsar's Sacred Status: Punjab Tourism Advisor Defends Ban on Non-Veg Food

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Amid the Punjab government's move to ban the sale of non-vegetarian food in Amritsar, following its declaration as a sacred city, Advisor to the Punjab Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department, Deepak Bali, has defended the decision. Bali emphasized that the move is a tribute to the city's spiritual legacy and the teachings of Guru Ramdas Sahib, who established Amritsar. He stated that the city's spiritual significance should be respected, and that the decision to ban non-veg food is in line with the city's revered status. Responding to concerns over the impact on livelihoods, Bali suggested that individuals affected by the ban can find alternative employment opportunities outside the city. He stated that the decision has been formalized and will be implemented as a law. The Punjab government recently declared Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib, and Talwandi Sabo as holy cities, imposing restrictions to preserve their religious sanctity. The decision has been approved by the Governor of Punjab, and various departments have been directed to enforce prohibitions within the notified limits of the three cities. The Department of Excise has been instructed to restrict the sale and consumption of liquor, while the Department of Health and Family Welfare has been directed to prohibit the sale and use of cigarettes and other intoxicants. The Department of Animal Husbandry has been asked to ban the sale and consumption of meat within the holy cities. The local authorities have been tasked with ensuring strict implementation of the orders.