Hinduism does not have a clear prohibition on consuming meat and alcohol, but many Hindus choose not to drink or are vegetarian - especially during religious festivals.

A recent Diwali celebration at Downing Street turned controversial when meat and alcohol were served, sparking outrage among the UK’s Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities.

No 10 has apologised after meat and alcohol were served at a Downing Street event to celebrate the festival of Diwali, held last month.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Diwali reception at Downing Street has sparked major controversy after meat and alcohol were served, leading to an apology from his office. British Indian MP Shivani Raja expressed disappointment over the event’s failure to respect Hindu traditions.

Downing Street has issued an apology for serving meat and alcohol at a Diwali reception held two weeks ago. The event, intended to celebrate the contributions of the British Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities,

No10 sorry for serving meat and alcohol at Diwali celebration - Sir Keir Starmer’s team says sorry after gaffe at annual reception two weeks ago

After a backlash, No10 admitted a 'mistake' had been made in organising the event, pledging 'it will not happen again'.

No10 apologises after meat and alcohol served at Diwali event - Number 10 said a ‘mistake’ had been made in the organisation of the event and sought to assure the community ‘it will not happen again’.

Keir Starmer's office has issued an apology following criticism from some British Hindus who took issue with the inclusion of non-vegetarian food and alcohol at a Diwali reception held at 10 Downing Street.