Palayam: Saffron threat to non-veg hotel

KOZHIKODE: The Hindu Aikya Vedi (HAV) is all set to launch an agitation against a proposed hotel at Palayam alleging that the hotel, coming up amid four temples, is non-vegetarian which would hit the religious sentiments of the Hindu community. The workers of the organisation put up posters and boards in front of the building on Tuesday against serving non-vegetarian food in the locality. There are four temples-- Mariyamman Temple, Thali Ganapath Temple, Thali Temple and Kanyaka Parameswari Temple--at the spot where the proposed hotel is coming up, it is pointed out.

Hindu Aikya Vedi district organizing secretary K. Shynu told DC that though the temple administrative committee had  contacted Mr Haridasan, the proprietor of the hotel, he refused to listen  the concerns of the committee members.  “This particular spot is at the centre of the temple complex”, he said, adding that there were many hotels, including non-vegetarian functioning outside. The building is owned by one Jaleel and the proprietor Haridas is just a tool”, he alleged.

The  Hindu Aikya Vedi  plans to approach the district collector, police and other authorities on Wednesday against the move and also would seek legal remedies, apart from mobilising the believers. However,  proprietor  Haridas Palakkal told DC that he was  yet to decide whether to start a hotel or any other business in the building. “Even before I decide on anything,  these persons with some hidden agenda put up boards and placards,”  he said, adding that none of the agitators contacted him. “Apart from one temple committee, all other committees support me”, Mr Haridas claimed.