According to information provided by Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS), the organization has demanded strict action against the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) and officials of Vashi Public Hospital, after a child nutrition pamphlet distributed at the hospital reportedly included beef as a recommended food item for young children.
The pamphlet was being used at the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation-run hospital as part of guidance on complementary feeding for children. Raising objections to its contents, HJS State Coordinator Sunil Ghanwat submitted a written complaint to the Chief Minister and the Home Minister, seeking criminal action against those responsible for preparing and approving the material.
Memorandum submitted to authorities
A separate memorandum was also submitted to Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation Additional Commissioner Sunil Pawar. The delegation included Ravindra Nalawade, Ashok Sawant and Govind Prasad Dubey. A copy of the complaint has been sent to the Navi Mumbai Police Commissioner as well.
Religious sentiments hurt, says HJS
According to the organisation, the mention of beef in a government hospital pamphlet is unacceptable in Maharashtra, where cow slaughter is prohibited under state law and the cow has been declared the “State Mother.” HJS stated that cows hold a sacred place in Hindu beliefs and are often regarded as a second mother for infants who do not receive their mother’s milk.
The organisation said that recommending beef for children can hurt the religious sentiments of millions of Hindus and may create social tension. It also expressed concern over the declining population of indigenous cattle breeds such as Gir, Sahiwal and Devni, while noting that several countries are increasingly recognising the benefits of Indian cattle and practices such as “cow therapy” for mental well-being.
Demand for criminal cases
Strongly condemning the issue, Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has called for criminal cases to be registered against IAP and the officials who approved the pamphlet. It has also demanded that similar pamphlets be immediately withdrawn, seized and destroyed in government hospitals across Navi Mumbai and Maharashtra.
Sunil Ghanwat warned that if prompt action is not taken by the administration, the organisation will launch a strong public agitation on the issue.
