I eat non-vegetarian food during Ugadi (Hindu New Year) and Shivratri !

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s statement in the Legislative Assembly

Bengaluru (Karnataka) – Even today I do not believe in Rahu Kaal and Gulika Kaal (an inauspicious period). I have presented the budget during Rahu Kaal and Gulika Kaal (an inauspicious period) in the past. I do not believe them. I eat non-vegetarian food during Ugadi and Shivratri also. What is wrong in that ? I believe in the existence of God; but God is not only in temples but everywhere,” Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said during a discussion on the budget in the Assembly.

Dietary Choice or Deliberate Disrespect?

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah says he consumes non-veg even on Ugadi & Mahashivratri

Food choice is personal; agreed. However, stating that one eats non-vegetarian food specifically during the Hindu New Year is an attempt to mock Hindus.… pic.twitter.com/oCz2IcxGb1

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) March 27, 2026

Leader of Opposition in the Assembly R. Ashoka had said that Siddaramaiah talks about the principle of karma; but he neglected Rahu Kaal and presented the budget. Clarifying this, Siddaramaiah said, “Family and officials had told me not to present the budget during Rahu Kaal; But because I believe in democracy, I presented it in Rahu Kaal,” he said.

Editorial Perspectives

What should and should not be eaten ? is everyone’s personal right; However, proclaiming that I eat non-vegetarian food on the occasion of the Hindu new year is akin to mocking Hindus. Siddaramaiah never makes such statements about other religions; Because he knows the consequences of that !