Coupon Mandatory for Meals at Sai Sansthan

Sai Baba Sansthan’s Decision Following the Shirdi Double Murder Case

Shirdi – Devotees seeking free meals at the Sai Baba Sansthan’s Annapoorna dining hall will now be required to obtain a coupon. Previously, direct entry was allowed for free meals, but going forward, only those with valid coupons will be permitted. A few days ago, former BJP MP Dr Sujay Vikhe Patil had urged the administration to modify the free meal system, citing concerns about the rising number of criminals and beggars, especially those struggling with addiction, in Shirdi. The recent double murder incident in the town has further influenced this decision. In a press conference, the Sai Baba Sansthan officially announced the implementation of this new policy.

Free Meals Reserved Only for Devotees and Patients – Sai Sansthan

Sai Baba Sansthan’s Chief Executive Officer, Goraksh Gadilkar, informed the media that free meals at the Prasadalaya will now be strictly available only to devotees and patients undergoing treatment at the Sansthan’s hospital. Other individuals will be required to pay for meals. This decision will come into effect from February 6. The move aims to address several complaints about intoxicated individuals entering the dining hall, consuming alcohol, and smoking in the premises, which had been causing inconvenience to devotees.

New Free Meal System Guidelines

1.Devotees who have completed Darshan will receive a coupon near the Udi-Prasad counter.

2.Devotees attending Mukh Darshan will be given an optional coupon at the Mukh Darshan hall.

3.Devotees staying in Sansthan accommodations will be allowed entry based on their room receipt and key.

4.Relatives of hospital patients can avail free meals by showing case papers or admission cards.

5.Palkhi pilgrims and school tour groups may be granted access after verification by the Sansthan Superintendent.

6.Paid meal services will continue as usual, and separate paid breakfast coupons will be issued for those in the Darshan queue in the morning.