The Coimbatore–Bengaluru Cantonment Vande Bharat Express.
Credit: DH FILE PHOTO
In the midst of a multitude of debates over the issue of language imposition in India, Malayalam writer N S Madhavan has ignited a fresh debate over “food imposition" as he highlighted the issue of lack of South Indian food not finding place on Vande Bharat trains.
The writer took to social media sharing image on X with the caption, “They speak about language imposition. What about food imposition. Typical snacks served in South Indian Vande Bharat trains. This one from Bengaluru-Coimbatore VB.”
His post quickly gained attention and garnered several reactions. While many echoed his concerns, others disagreed. One commenting on his pots said, “I'm from North/West India and though I personally do not have any specific food preferences, I agree that trains serving a particular region should take into account the dietary preferences of the region.”
Another said, “Yeah this is actually intriguing, never a central government or railways gave attention. Anyway these caterers don't know how to cook food either it is North Indian or south Indian, if you have not tasted the worst food, then go and experience in railways.”
Another use wrote, “99% of restaurants in the North serve Idli-Dosa as staple items. Food imposition saar”.
“You already have the option of choosing food option with irctc app, Zomato and other delivery apps to book food online yet you choose a fixed menu decided by irctc which you agreed to eat during ticket booking. There is a option of no food and you could easily use delivery apps to get local food," wrote a second user.
Some users went as far as to call Madhavan a “hypocrite” and a “commie” to show their disagreement with him.