Awahd had reportedly stated on January 3 that Lord Ram of the Bahujan people was non-vegetarian. “We don’t read history and forget everything in politics. Ram is ours. Of us Bahujans, who used to hunt to eat. Ram was never a vegetarian. He was a non-vegetarian. How can a man who lived in the jungle for 14 years remain vegetarian?” Awhad had said.

It led to an outrage against Awhad. BJP activists held protests against Awhad across the state. Meanwhile, due to protests from other parties and a note of discontent from within the party, on January 4, Awhad expressed regret over his statement, but did not withdraw it, pointing out that his reference was from Valmiki Ramayana.

In his FIR, BJP leader Ghate claimed that Awhad has hurt the sentiments of Hindus at a time when preparations are underway for Ram Mandir inauguration slated for January 22 in Ayodhya.