Noida school asks students to skip non-vegetarian food in tiffin citing 2 reasons

The school issued a circular requesting parents not to send non-vegetarian food in their children’s lunch. (Representational)

A recent directive from a private school in Noida’s Sector 132 has ignited a heated debate among parents, with some rallying in support and others condemning the move as an overreach into personal choices.

On Wednesday, the school issued a circular requesting parents not to send non-vegetarian food in their children’s lunch. The announcement, which has stirred significant controversy, has been described by critics as an attempt to police dietary preferences.

Principal of the school, in a statement on Thursday to Hindustan Times, said that the circular is merely a request and not a directive. “We have written to the parents requesting that students refrain from bringing non-vegetarian food items to school. This is not a diktat, but only a request,” the principal clarified. “There is no ban, no directive, no advisory...only a respectful request.”

The circular highlights two primary reasons for the request. The first, “Health and Safety,” points to the potential health risks associated with improperly stored non-vegetarian food.

“Non-vegetarian food, when cooked in the morning for lunchtime consumption, can pose serious health risks if not stored and handled properly, and we prioritise our students’ well-being,” the document stated, HT reported.

The second reason concerns “Inclusivity and Respect,” arguing that a vegetarian environment promotes a culture of inclusivity and ensures all students feel respected, regardless of their dietary preferences.

“By maintaining a vegetarian food environment, we ensure that all students feel respected and comfortable, regardless of their dietary preferences or restrictions, while eating their meals together,” it reads.

The circular has divided opinions among parents. While some support the measure, citing cultural and health reasons, others argue that it infringes on personal freedom.

Dharmveer Singh, the district inspector of schools, noted that while the circular is a request rather than a mandate, parents with objections can escalate the issue to the education department.