Bhubaneswar: In a swift reversal following widespread public criticism and backlash, the Koraput administration on Sunday withdrew its earlier circular that prohibited the sale of non-vegetarian food items on Republic Day.
“In continuation of this Collectorate Letter No. 93, dated-23.01.2026 regarding prohibition on sale of Meat, Chicken, Fish, Egg and other non-vegetarian food items on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day Celebration, 2026
in Koraput District, and whereas the said instruction was issued purely on the suggestion of the District Level Republic Day Preparatory Committee. Now, after due consideration, the aforesaid Letter No. 93 dated 23.01.2026 is hereby revoked with immediate effect,” read the directive.
The original order, issued by Collector Manoj Satyaban Mahajan on Saturday, had directed officials, including tehsildars, block development officers, and executive officers, to enforce a complete one-day ban on the sale of meat, chicken, fish, eggs, and other non-vegetarian products across the district during the 77th Republic Day celebrations.
The administration also appealed to residents to choose vegetarian food “as a mark of respect” for the national celebration. However, it did not explain the rationale behind the ban on the sale of non-vegetarian items.
The order went viral on social media and drew sharp reactions from netizens, who called the move a violation of constitutional rights and an administrative overreach.
Later speaking to the media, Mahajan clarified that the decision to ban non-vegetarian items on Republic Day was taken based on the demands expressed by a large number of people during the preparedness meeting. “The administration has made this decision in accordance with the wishes of the public,” he had noted.
