Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma issued a new directive mandating that all government events feature exclusively vegetarian meals. This decision follows multiple complaints regarding lavish dining practices at official functions. In addition, he has ordered a significant reduction in the size of his convoy, limiting it to ten vehicles.
This policy shift comes in response to a controversy involving Nalbari District Commissioner Varnali Deka. In June, Deka was criticised by the CM for serving an elaborate spread at a State Cabinet meeting, which included both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, contrary to the Chief Minister’s instructions for a simple vegetarian meal.
In a sternly worded letter to Deka, Himanta Sarma expressed his dissatisfaction, “Despite repeated directives to provide a modest vegetarian meal at the Cabinet meeting on June 27, 2024, the guidelines were not followed. The meal included an array of vegetarian dishes along with multiple fish and meat items, which was deemed excessive.”
CM Himanta’s new orders are intended to address concerns about unnecessary extravagance and ensure adherence to simpler, more modest standards at government functions.
