The directive from the governments of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand requiring dhabas and restaurants along the Kanwar Yatra route to display their owners’ names has sparked significant controversy, drawing criticism from various quarters.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi condemned the order, alleging it reflects deep-seated prejudice against Muslims in India. He expressed concern over what he described as growing animosity towards Indian Muslims, attributing this sentiment to political parties and leaders of Hindutva.
In defense, West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party chief Sukanta Majumdar accused the Opposition of misleading the public, asserting that similar directives were issued by governments led by the Samajwadi Party in the past. He dismissed allegations of discrimination, stating that such requirements are routine and non-religious in nature, aimed solely at regulatory compliance.
Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal criticized the directive as divisive, warning that agendas like these would only serve to further polarize the nation.
Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind chief Maulana Arshad Madani denounced the directive as a political ploy camouflaged in religious garb, calling it discriminatory and potentially aiding anti-national elements.
PDP president Mehbooba Mufti voiced apprehension that after Muslims, the BJP government could target Dalits next, asserting that such actions violate the constitutional rights of citizens.
Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut accused the BJP of jeopardizing national unity by mandating the display of caste and religious identities at food stalls, suggesting such measures are designed to divide rather than unite the country.
