Organiser welcomes central govt’s decision

AMRITSAR: A day after visa of six Pakistani chefs was rejected by the Indian government, restricting them from participating in the World Heritage Cuisine and Food Festival, renowned Indian chef Manjit Gill, who is also the chief organiser of the event, supported the Centre’s decision, on Sunday.

The food festival will be held from October 12 to 14.

The event will be organised in collaboration with the administration and NGOs including Dilbir Foundation and Majha House, Indian Federation of Culinary Associations headed by Gill at the Gobindgarh Fort.

The event is scheduled to be take place from October 12 to 14. Around 70 countries are expected to present over 300 culinary delights during the fest.

“Two chefs from 70 countries are invited. However, six Pakistani chefs were willing to participate. Our organisation cannot fulfil the conditions for ensuring Indian visas for Pakistani chefs. So, we withdrew the invitation on Saturday,” said the famous chef.

Replying to the increasing tension between India and Pakistan, he said, “After all it is a matter of national security. So, we stand with the government.

DIVIDED OPINION

Meanwhile, the NGOs conducting the event, have reservation on the issue.

“The food fest is slated to be a gastronomical feast of Punjabi food traditions as well as a melting pot of international cuisines,” Dilbir Foundation president Gunbir Singh said.

“It is disheartening that the shared heritage lost to Pakistan will not be in play in this global event,” he added further .