UP CM Orders Display of Eatery Owners’ Names on Kanwar Yatra Route Amid Controversy

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has mandated the display of owners’ names and identities at all eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route to maintain the religious sanctity of the pilgrimage. The Kanwar Yatra, an 11-day pilgrimage beginning on July 22, involves Shiva worshippers traveling to fetch Ganga water to offer at shrines. Adityanath’s order aims to prevent any disturbance to the pilgrims during this significant religious event.

A spokesperson for the state government emphasized that this directive is intended to ensure transparency and to uphold the religious sentiments of the pilgrims. Additionally, the directive includes taking action against those involved in selling and promoting halal products.

Controversy and Criticism

The order has sparked significant controversy. JD(U) leader KC Tyagi, among others, criticized the directive, warning that it could create a communal divide. Tyagi pointed out that Muslims in the region have historically supported the Kanwar Yatra pilgrims and cautioned against orders that could disturb communal harmony.

Member of Parliament Asaduddin Owaisi condemned the directive, likening it to apartheid and discriminatory practices from historical contexts. Meanwhile, BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi criticized the “overzealous officials” responsible for the order, warning that such actions could promote untouchability and emphasizing that faith must be respected without fostering discrimination.

Police Clarification

The police in Muzaffarnagar, Shamli, and Saharanpur districts clarified that the compliance with the order was voluntary. They noted that many Kanwariyas abstain from certain food items during the pilgrimage, and past incidents had revealed confusion caused by shop names, which sometimes led to law and order issues. The police insisted that the directive aimed to prevent such confusion and to respect the pilgrims’ faith, rather than to create religious discrimination.

Political and Social Reactions

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav described the order as a “social crime” and called for judicial intervention. He argued that the directive was intended to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere and communal harmony. Uttar Pradesh minister Kapil Dev Agarwal supported the idea, emphasizing transparency for the pilgrims.

Local administrations in the mentioned districts had initially ordered roadside vendors, especially fruit sellers, to display their names to ensure clear information about the sellers’ identities. This move followed demands from Hindu activists after reports of food contamination. Critics argued that this demand had elements of stereotyping and could lead to religious profiling.

Broader Socioeconomic Context

The controversy also highlights the broader issue of representation in low-skilled jobs and the unorganized sector. The Sachar Committee report of 2006 noted that Muslims had a relatively high share in self-employment and non-agricultural unorganized sectors. This trend has led to debates about the reasons behind such occupational patterns and the socioeconomic dynamics at play.

Conclusion

The directive to display the names of eatery owners on the Kanwar Yatra route, while intended to maintain religious sanctity and transparency, has stirred significant controversy. The debate reflects deeper societal issues, including communal harmony, representation in various sectors, and the intersection of religious practices with everyday commerce. The situation underscores the need for careful consideration of policies that affect diverse communities and the importance of fostering an inclusive environment.