Indian Railways has decided to serve non-vegetarian food on the newly launched Howrah-Guwahati (Kamakhya) Vande Bharat Sleeper Express. The train, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 17, did not initially offer non-veg meals. This led to complaints from passengers and a political stir. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) criticized the BJP for opposing West Bengal’s dietary customs. BJP leaders from West Bengal, however, supported adding non-vegetarian options. Union Minister of State and Balurghat BJP MP Sukanta Majumdar spoke to Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on January 25 and requested the change. "He assured me that non-vegetarian food will also be made available for passengers soon. He said the notification will be issued within two or three days," said Majumdar. On January 27, Eastern Railway officials confirmed that non-veg food will appear on the menu shortly. Both West Bengal and Assam have strong culinary traditions involving non-vegetarian food. The decision comes ahead of elections in these states, potentially avoiding political controversy. In December 2025, BJP supporters had caused a controversy by assaulting a vendor delivering chicken patties at a Gita chanting event in Kolkata. BJP MP Abhijit Gangopadhyay condemned that attack. This latest move by the Railways aims to respect local food habits and passenger demands.