Somnath Food Ban Row: Restaurant Owners Challenge Restrictions, Gujarat Cites Pilgrimage Sanctity

The Gujarat government has defended its permanent ban on the sale and storage of non-vegetarian food within designated areas around Somnath Temple, telling the Gujarat High Court that the right to conduct business cannot override the religious, historical and cultural significance of a pilgrimage site.

During a hearing on Wednesday, October 21, the state argued that Somnath cannot be viewed merely as a commercial town, given its spiritual importance to millions of Hindu devotees. Government leader G.H. Virk submitted that there is no absolute fundamental right to sell non-vegetarian food near the temple or along routes used by pilgrims.

The government told a bench headed by Justice Nisha M. Thakor that more than 1.16 crore devotees had visited the temple in the preceding nine months. It also cited restrictions on non-vegetarian food sales in pilgrimage destinations such as Rishikesh, Haridwar, Amritsar and Mathura-Vrindavan.

The notification, issued in August 2026, imposes a permanent prohibition on the sale and storage of non-vegetarian food within a 500-metre radius of the temple in Gujarat's Gir Somnath district. It identifies specific routes and six prohibited zones where the restrictions apply.

Six restaurant owners have challenged the notification before the High Court, arguing that they have operated legally for decades and possess valid licences. They allege that the restrictions forced their establishments to shut down, affecting their businesses and livelihoods.

The petitioners contend that the district magistrate exceeded his powers by imposing a permanent prohibition on an otherwise lawful trade. They have challenged the notification under Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution, which guarantees citizens the right to practise a profession or carry on an occupation, trade or business.

The state, however, maintains that restaurant owners can continue serving vegetarian food at their existing premises or sell non-vegetarian items outside the specifically notified areas, subject to applicable laws.

The High Court is examining the challenge to the restrictions. The case concerns the legality of the notification and the scope of restrictions imposed on businesses operating near the temple. The outcome will determine the legal position on the challenged prohibition.