A protest by BJP workers over the alleged sale of only halal meat at a restaurant near Bhatjangla on National Highway 12 in West Bengal’s Nadia district triggered a brief standoff on Friday before police intervened to restore normalcy.
The demonstration took place outside Mother’s Hut restaurant after a group of BJP workers reportedly entered the establishment and questioned employees about the type of meat being served. According to staff members, they confirmed that the restaurant serves halal meat when asked by the visitors.
The protesters then enquired whether jhatka meat was also available. Restaurant employees said they informed them that jhatka meat was not served at the establishment. The response led to a heated exchange, with staff later saying they had attempted to explain the restaurant’s policy but failed to satisfy the protesters.
“We told them that halal meat is served here. They then asked for jhatka meat, and we informed them that it was not available. We tried to explain our policy, but they were unwilling to accept it,” a restaurant employee said.
Following the exchange, BJP workers staged a protest outside the restaurant for more than two hours. They alleged that Hindu customers were being served halal meat without adequate disclosure and claimed there was no clear indication on the menu stating that only halal meat was available.
The protesters demanded that restaurants prominently mention the type of meat they serve and, where feasible, offer jhatka meat as an alternative for customers who prefer it.
BJP worker Uday Rajnath said consumers have the right to know the nature of the food they are purchasing. “Restaurants serving halal meat should clearly mention it and also provide jhatka meat for those who prefer it,” he said.
Police personnel from Krishnanagar Kotwali Police Station reached the spot after being informed about the protest. Officers held discussions with both the protesters and the restaurant management before bringing the situation under control. No violence or injuries were reported during the incident.
The episode also drew mixed reactions on social media. One user, Debasish Sarkar, questioned the protest, arguing that many people consume meat without knowing how it has been prepared. He added that those who object to halal meat are free to dine at another restaurant instead of creating a controversy.
