Kerala Governor's vegetarian kitchen directive sparks political controversy

Newly appointed Kerala Governor Om Prakash Mathur has faced backlash from the Congress and CPI(M) after reportedly directing the Lok Bhavan kitchen to serve only vegetarian food. While governor's office sources clarified that the policy reflects Mathur's personal diet and applies only to him and select staff, critics argue it infringes on individual freedom.

Congress leader KC Venugopal alleged that the move violates constitutional rights and constitutes an attempt to impose a 'saffron agenda' on the state. Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala echoed these concerns, maintaining that dietary choices are matters of personal liberty that should not be dictated by authorities.

Editor's note: Correctly summarizes the controversy and clarifies the specific scope of the kitchen directive as stated in the source.