**KFC in Ghaziabad Goes Vegetarian Amid Protests During Sawan**
In a significant shift, the KFC outlet in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, has temporarily removed chicken dishes from its menu, opting to serve only vegetarian options. This decision comes in response to protests led by the Hindu Raksha Dal, which objected to the sale of meat during the sacred Sawan period and the ongoing Kanwar Yatra.
The protests erupted in the Indirapuram area, where demonstrators forcibly pulled down the shop’s shutters, causing a disruption in traffic. Local police quickly intervened to restore order, and a case has been filed against 8 to 10 individuals allegedly involved in the protest. The protesters argued that non-vegetarian items should be excluded from menus during this spiritually significant month.
In light of the protests, the KFC outlet has put up signs stating, “Only Veg Available for Now.” While the restaurant’s management has chosen not to comment on the situation, customers have confirmed the temporary switch to a vegetarian-only menu and have largely welcomed the change. Many patrons expressed minimal inconvenience and understanding of the decision, given the cultural and religious context.
Authorities are taking measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, particularly during the Sawan month and the Kanwar Yatra. Senior police official Abhishek Srivastava indicated that further legal action will follow a thorough investigation into the protests.
In summary, the KFC outlet’s decision to serve only vegetarian food reflects the cultural sensitivities surrounding the Sawan period, demonstrating the impact of community sentiments on business operations.
**FAQ**
**Why did KFC in Ghaziabad switch to a vegetarian menu?**
KFC made the switch in response to protests from the Hindu Raksha Dal, which called for the removal of non-vegetarian items during the Sawan period, a time of spiritual significance for many Hindus.