ERC launches investigation of meat being sold in “Hindu” bags

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) is probing reports of a restaurant serving meat in bags carrying the Hindu symbol or “Om”, which is contrary to the religion’s practices and has sparked outrage on social media.
The Commission said on Friday that it has taken note of the viral video and images in circulation.
“In this regard, the ERC will be investigating the matter thoroughly as an act of religious intolerance and will take the necessary course of action to remedy the situation,” the ERC outlined.
In the interim, the Commission called on the business entity to discontinue the use of the bags with Hindu emblem with immediate effect.
Consistent with Function No 6 of the ERC’s mandate to “Encourage and create respect for religious, cultural and other forms of diversity in a plural society” as outlined in Article 212D of the Constitution, the Commission said it will continue to work towards sensitising the public on cultural and religious practices of the various religions in our country, so as to increase religious tolerance and acceptance in Guyana.
The issue went viral on social media this week after a customer shared her disdain at the bags in question used to serve fried chicken. The food item was purchased from a business in Rose Hall, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). Later, an employee of the establishment posted a video, justifying the actions on the part of the establishment. These actions were condemned by the Hindu community.
In fact, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha said the incident has left members of the Hindu community “deeply offended and hurt”.
“We have learned that bags often used to distribute ‘prasadam’, a sacred offering in Hinduism, are being used to serve fried chicken by your restaurant. This bag bears the sacred Om and Trishul symbols. This action was seen as disrespectful to our religious beliefs,” the organisation asserted.
Acknowledging that the business might have had no intention of offending or disrespecting any religious group, it called upon them to desist immediately from using the bags for any meat or non-vegetarian purpose.
“We are willing to offer educational training to your staff about the importance of respecting various religious customs and sensitivities. By taking these steps, you can demonstrate your commitment to respecting the diverse beliefs of your customers and create an environment of inclusivity in your restaurant.”