A controversy broke out at a popular restaurant on National Highway 12 near Bhatjangla in West Bengal’s Nadia district on Friday after a group of BJP workers protested over the alleged sale of only halal meat at the establishment.
According to local sources, customers were dining at Mother’s Hut restaurant when BJP workers arrived and questioned the staff about the type of meat being served.
The protesters first asked whether the restaurant served halal meat. After staff members reportedly confirmed that it did, they asked whether jhatka meat was also available. When the employees said the restaurant did not serve jhatka meat, an argument broke out.
One of the restaurant employees said the staff tried to explain the restaurant’s policy, but the protesters were not convinced.
“They asked whether halal meat was available, and I told them it was. Then they asked for jhatka meat. We informed them that we do not serve it. We tried to explain the matter, but they were unwilling to accept our explanation,” the employee said.
BJP Demands Clear Labelling of Meat
The BJP workers staged a protest outside the restaurant for more than two hours, alleging that Hindu customers were being served halal meat without being clearly informed.
The protesters claimed there was no prominent indication on the menu that only halal meat was served and demanded that restaurants clearly mention the type of meat they offer. They also urged restaurants to provide jhatka meat as an alternative wherever possible.
BJP worker Uday Rajnath said, “Customers should know what type of meat they are being served. Restaurants serving halal meat should clearly mention it and also provide jhatka meat for those who prefer it.”
Police Intervene, Situation Brought Under Control
Police from Krishnanagar Kotwali Police Station reached the restaurant after receiving information about the protest. Officers spoke with both the protesters and the restaurant management before bringing the situation under control.
No violence or injuries were reported during the demonstration.
Police said an inquiry has been initiated into the incident.
Social Media Reactions
The incident also sparked debate on social media.
A user identified as Debasish Sarkar questioned the protest and wrote that many people consume meat without knowing how it was prepared. He argued that if someone objects to halal meat, they are free to choose another restaurant instead of creating controversy.
