Navi Mumbai: The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) 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 allegedly listed beef as a recommended food item for young children.
According to HJS, the pamphlet was being used at the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation-run hospital to provide guidance on complementary feeding for infants and young children. Objecting to the inclusion of beef, HJS State Coordinator Sunil Ghanwat submitted a written complaint to the Chief Minister and Home Minister, seeking criminal action against those responsible for preparing and approving the material.
A separate memorandum was submitted to Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation Additional Commissioner Sunil Pawar by an HJS delegation comprising Ravindra Nalawade, Ashok Sawant, and Govind Prasad Dubey. Copies of the complaint have also been sent to the Navi Mumbai Police Commissioner.
HJS Raises Religious and Legal Concerns
HJS stated that the mention of beef in a government hospital pamphlet is inappropriate in Maharashtra, where cow slaughter is prohibited under state law, and the cow has been accorded special cultural and religious significance. The organisation argued that cows occupy a sacred place in Hindu traditions and are often regarded as a nurturing figure for infants who cannot be breastfed.
The organisation further claimed that recommending beef for children could hurt the religious sentiments of many Hindus and potentially lead to social discord. HJS also expressed concern about the declining population of indigenous cattle breeds such as Gir, Sahiwal, and Devni, while highlighting growing international interest in Indian cattle breeds and traditional practices associated with cow welfare.
Condemning the issue, HJS has called for criminal cases to be registered against the IAP and the officials who approved the pamphlet. The organisation has also demanded that similar pamphlets be immediately withdrawn from government hospitals across Navi Mumbai and Maharashtra. Sunil Ghanwat warned that if the authorities fail to take prompt action, HJS will launch a public agitation over the matter.
