A fresh political debate has erupted in India over the hospitality extended during the high-profile BRICS summit. The controversy centers around the dinner menu prepared for the visiting international dignitaries, sparking a sharp exchange of words between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the opposition Congress. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju has strongly criticized the opposition for politicizing the culinary choices offered to global leaders at the official state banquet.
The conflict began when certain political figures aligned with the Congress party took to social media to question the official menu. They raised objections over the exclusive selection of vegetarian dishes, asking why non-vegetarian options were excluded from the banquet hosted for international heads of state. The opposition’s remarks suggested that a singular culinary preference was being imposed on a diverse group of global leaders.
Union Minister Rebuts Opposition Objections
In response to the criticism, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju launched a direct counterattack on the Congress party via the social media platform X. He expressed deep disappointment over the fact that a national guest-hosting event was being used for partisan politics. Rebutting the allegations, Rijiju wrote, "I cannot believe the Congress party is politicizing even the food menu served to the leaders of BRICS nations." He emphasized that the foreign guests thoroughly appreciated the meal, which was designed to highlight the country's rich traditions.
Rijiju strongly defended the decision to serve an exclusively vegetarian feast, arguing that Indian vegetarian cuisine is globally renowned for its immense variety, rich flavors, and high nutritional value. According to the minister, the menu served as a representation of India's cultural heritage and hospitality. He pointed out that the visiting dignitaries showed great appreciation for the local delicacies, which spanned various regional traditions from across the country.
Showcasing India's Hospitality on the Global Stage
The banquet was hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in honor of the visiting heads of state attending the BRICS Summit 2026, which India is proud to host. The prestigious event saw active participation from several Union Ministers, state Chief Ministers, and senior officials. The gathering served as a platform to display authentic Indian hospitality and cultural depth to the world.
In his social media updates, Rijiju shared his pride in India's role as the host of the summit under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi. He noted that the dinner provided an opportunity for leaders and ministers to come together and welcome the foreign delegates in a warm, traditional atmosphere. By presenting carefully curated vegetarian dishes from different Indian states, the government aimed to project the country's diverse culinary identity on the international stage, a move that has now become the latest flashpoint in domestic politics.
