West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh stated non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja is not controversial. He referenced Bageshwar Baba's appeal for vegetarianism, noting saints advocate for health. Ghosh defended Bengal's tradition of consuming goat meat as prasad. He criticized past governments for dictating people's food choices. The minister also questioned government funding for community pujas.

Calls for vegetarian-only food at Durga Puja pandals spark controversy in West Bengal amid cultural and political tensions.

After the religious leader said that meat must not be sold near the goddess’ idol, the TMC asserted that Bengalis will ‘not let this go’.