Controversy Over ‘Beef Biryani’ at AMU Leads to FIR Against University Staff
Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh – A controversy erupted at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) after a notice at Sir Shah Sulaiman Hall stated that “beef biryani will be served instead of chicken biryani” for lunch. The announcement led to public outrage and protests from certain student groups, prompting the police to register an FIR against three university staff members.
FIR Filed, Investigation Underway
The FIR was lodged at the Civil Lines police station against Mohammad Faiazullah and Mujassim Ahmad Bhati, both food in-charges of Sulaiman Hall, and provost Fasih Ragib Gauhar. According to Station House Officer (SHO) Rajveer Singh, the case has been registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 302 (uttering words with deliberate intent to wound religious feelings), Section 270 (public nuisance), and Section 353 (public mischief).
Circle Officer Abhay Pandey stated that an inquiry is ongoing, and legal action will be taken based on the findings. Authorities are investigating whether this was an intentional act or a clerical mistake, as claimed by AMU officials.
AMU Calls It a Clerical Mistake
As the controversy grew, AMU officials retracted the notice, calling it a typing error. AMU Proctor Mohammad Wasim Ali clarified that the meal plan remained unchanged and that the notice had been mistakenly worded by a senior staff member.
“It was a human error, and we have rectified it. The dining hall continues to function as before, with the same food arrangements. AMU’s meal plans are designed with respect for everyone’s sentiments,” Ali said.
Further, AMU’s Public Relations Officer Vibha Sharma mentioned that the notice lacked official signatures, raising doubts about its authenticity. The university issued a show-cause notice to those responsible to ensure compliance with its regulations.
Protests and Political Reactions
The incident sparked protests from student groups and political organizations. Members of the Karni Sena, a right-wing Hindu group, staged demonstrations, demanding strict action against those involved. Gyanendra Singh, Karni Sena’s Uttar Pradesh unit chief, alleged that social media messages had circulated claiming that a ‘beef party’ was being organized at AMU involving both students and teachers.
“This act has hurt the religious sentiments of Hindu students at AMU. We demand the immediate expulsion of those responsible,” Singh said. The Karni Sena also submitted a memorandum to the district administration, calling for a thorough investigation.
Broader Implications and Institutional Sensitivities
This controversy highlights broader communal sensitivities regarding food choices in India, especially in public institutions. While beef consumption is legal in some states, it remains a contentious issue due to religious and cultural beliefs. In Uttar Pradesh, where AMU is located, the slaughter and consumption of beef are strictly regulated by law.
Legal experts argue that while clerical errors do not usually constitute criminal offenses, such incidents can have significant political and emotional consequences. The case also reflects the challenges universities face in maintaining neutrality amid rising social tensions.
Institutional Measures and Next Steps
The AMU administration has assured that necessary corrective measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. Officials emphasized that the university’s dining services follow a democratic approach, where meal plans are decided through mutual consensus among students.
Meanwhile, police officials have stated that a detailed investigation is underway to determine whether the act was deliberate or a simple mistake. As tensions continue, the incident underscores the delicate balance institutions must maintain in catering to diverse communities while ensuring communal harmony.
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