New Delhi: An order issued by the Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) directing eateries to drop references to specific meats from licences and signboards has resulted in criticism from local residents. Those opposing the move have termed the development as “intrusive and politically driven”, while highlighting the fact that in Arunachal Pradesh a vast majority eats non-vegetarian food, reported Times of India.

In its recent order, the IMC directed hotels and restaurants to remove words such as pork, chicken, beef and mutton from trade licence nomenclature and public signage. The reason cited for this included “public decency, animal welfare norms and prevailing sensitivities.”

The order issued by joint commissioner Datum Gadi stated that existing licences must be revised and new applications carrying such references will not be cleared, according to an order issued by, reported TOI.

Meanwhile, the IMC has given eateries 10 days to comply by updating signboards and banners, and in case of non-compliance, action will be taken under applicable laws and byelaws.

Residents and business owners have hit back, saying the directive targets certain foods and blurs consumer choice.

“Such naming ensures non-beef eaters don’t accidentally walk into such places. In that case, authorities should also shut down KFC, and we will seek closure of ‘pure veg’ restaurants,” Ranju Dodum, a resident told the newspaper.

IMC corporator Gora Lotak said he plans to seek a review at a business meeting scheduled for April 9, calling the decision “wrong”.

The IMC has invoked powers under Arunachal Pradesh Municipal Corporation Act, 2019, to enforce the change. It has said that saying business names should be general and appropriate.

Those opposing the order have said the new rule risks erasing customary identifiers in a state where meat-based cuisine is staple to daily life.

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