Alappuzha (Kerala): The police have arrested two restaurant owners in connection with a controversial Vishu greeting poster released by a 'Manthi' (Kuzhimanthi) eatery. The individuals, identified as Shamnas (30) and Arshad (36), are the owners of 'Meher Manthi' located at Cherthala here.

The controversy erupted on social media following the release of a poster by the restaurant to mark the festival of Vishu. The digital poster depicted a plate of Chicken Kuzhimanthi placed in front of Lord Krishna. Following the public outcry, a Cherthala native named Biju filed a formal police complaint. Consequently, the police registered a case against the duo for spreading “offensive” content on social media and hurting religious sentiments. The arrested owners are expected to be released on station bail.

Meanwhile, the owners have maintained that although the poster was created, it was not circulated. They stated that it was posted only once as a WhatsApp status before being promptly removed. In a video statement, one of the owners expressed regret over the incident, clarifying that they had no intention of causing offence.