In the circular, the school stated, “We are writing to respectfully request that students not bring non-vegetarian food items to school,” and outlined two key reasons for this request. Under the subheading “Health and Safety,” the school argued that non-vegetarian food cooked in the morning could spoil by lunchtime, posing health risks if not stored and handled properly. The second reason, under “Inclusivity and Respect,” emphasised the school’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity but suggested that maintaining a vegetarian food environment would help ensure that all students feel respected and comfortable.
However, the circular has not been well received by all parents. Many expressed confusion over the connection between respect and non-vegetarian food and questioned the logic behind the health risks associated with non-vegetarian items. One parent, whose son is in the primary section, told TOI, “I don’t understand how one’s food choice can be disrespectful to others. If vegetarians are not forced to eat non-vegetarian food, why should non-vegetarians be restricted?”
Another parent highlighted the importance of a nutrient-rich lunch, particularly for children who spend most of their day at school. “If they don’t eat protein-rich food like eggs, how will they get all the necessary nutrients?” she asked.
Some parents also pointed out that vegetarian food can also spoil if left in a lunchbox for too long, especially in hot and humid weather. “Restricting non-vegetarian food is unnecessary. Providing nutritious food should be a parent’s decision, not the school’s,” another parent said.
On the other hand, some parents supported the school’s request, arguing that schools, as educational institutions, should promote certain values, including the avoidance of non-vegetarian food. One parent, whose 14-year-old son attends DPS, said, “Schools are like temples for children, and non-vegetarian food isn’t advisable there.”Some students shared that while they don’t mind eating vegetarian food occasionally, they prefer it to be by choice, not compulsion. “I respect my vegetarian friends and keep a distance while eating non-vegetarian food,” said a senior student.Responding to the controversy, DPS principal Supriti Chauhan clarified that the circular was merely a request and not a mandate. “The school aims to provide a diverse environment and teach the value of sharing. If food spoils, it can affect students’ health, which is why the request was made,” Chauhan explained. She emphasised that the circular was not a directive and that similar requests are issued annually.
Manoj Kataria, founder of the Gautam Budh Nagar Parents Welfare Society, emphasised the importance of respecting the diverse cultural backgrounds and food habits of students, suggesting that all practices should be welcomed.
Nutritionist Dr. Shreya Goel noted that while food preferences are personal, processed non-vegetarian food can spoil faster than other items, which might have contributed to the school’s concern.
Education department officials in Noida stated that parents who object to the circular could file a complaint. Dharmveer Singh, district inspector of schools, said, “Since the circular is only a request and not a mandate, it is not a matter of significant concern. However, parents have the right to raise grievances if they feel strongly about it.”
Inputs from TOI
