Controversy Erupts Over Eateries Displaying Owners' Names During Kanwar Yatra in Muzaffarnagar

Muzaffarnagar Police's order for eateries to display owners' names during the Kanwar Yatra has sparked controversy. Intended to prevent confusion among devotees, the directive faces criticism from AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, who likened it to apartheid. Police clarify it's voluntary and aims to maintain law and order.

Muzaffarnagar Police have urged eateries to 'voluntarily display' owners' names during the Kanwar Yatra, clarifying that the intention is to facilitate devotees and not to create religious discrimination. They emphasized that the measure aims to prevent confusion among Kanwariyas and maintain law and order.

In a statement, the police explained that confusion had previously arisen when eateries' misleading names led to law and order issues among Kanwariyas. To address this, hotels, dhabas, and food vendors on Kanwar Marg are requested to display their owners' and employees' names to respect devotees' dietary restrictions.

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi criticized the directive, comparing it to apartheid and anti-Semitic policies in Nazi Germany. He argued that mandating name displays would lead to discrimination against Muslim-owned businesses. Muzaffarnagar SSP Abhishek Singh confirmed the preparations and stated that the directive is voluntary and intended to prevent future allegations and maintain social harmony.

(With inputs from agencies.)