NOIDA: A recent circular from Delhi Public School (DPS) in Noida, Sector 132, has sparked debate among parents and students by politely asking that non-vegetarian food be excluded from students' lunchboxes. The circular, issued on Wednesday, cites concerns about "health and hygiene" as well as promoting "respect and inclusivity" within the school community.

Supriti Chauhan, the principal of DPS-Gautam Buddh Nagar, clarified on Thursday that the circular was not a strict order but a respectful request. "This is something we do every year. There's no ban, no directive—just a request," she explained, according to a report by Hindustan Times.

The circular outlined two main reasons for this request:

Health and Safety: The school expressed concerns that non-vegetarian food prepared in the morning could spoil by lunchtime if not stored properly, posing health risks to students.

Inclusivity and Respect: The circular highlighted the school's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. By maintaining a vegetarian-only food environment, the school believes that all students, regardless of their dietary choices, can feel respected and comfortable while eating together.

The circular has led to mixed reactions among parents. Some parents strongly disagreed, arguing that providing a balanced and nutritious meal is the parents' responsibility, and the school should not interfere. "Vegetarian food can also spoil, so the restriction on non-vegetarian food seems unnecessary," one parent said anonymously.

On the other hand, some parents supported the school's request, believing that educational institutions should encourage certain values, including abstaining from non-vegetarian food. "Schools are like temples for children, and non-vegetarian food isn't appropriate there," remarked a parent of a 14-year-old student.

Students also had varied opinions. While some didn't mind eating vegetarian food occasionally, they preferred it to be a personal choice rather than a school-imposed rule. "I respect my vegetarian friends and keep a distance while eating non-vegetarian food," said one senior student.

In response to the controversy, Principal Supriti Chauhan reiterated that the request was made with students' health and well-being in mind and was not intended as a directive. "We aim to provide a diverse environment and teach the value of sharing. If food spoils, it can affect students' health, which is why we made the request," she explained.

Officials from the Noida education department noted that since the circular is merely a request, parents who disagree have the right to file complaints. Dharmveer Singh, district inspector of schools, mentioned, "While the circular isn't a mandate, parents can raise their concerns if they feel strongly about the issue."

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