The recitation of Vedic mantra before meals, bhojan mantra, has formally been made compulsory in all hostels run by the social welfare department of the Rajasthan government.

There was opposition when Social Welfare Minister Madan Dilawar issued the rule last year.

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Although no formal order was issued, the mantra was made compulsory informally.

Several human rights and left organisations, including People's Union for Civil Liberties had opposed the move on the ground that it saffronised the hostel environment.