Owaisi Criticizes UP Order, Compares It to Hitler's Policies

AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi likened a recent Uttar Pradesh government directive to display names during the Kanwar Yatra to policies in Nazi Germany. He condemned the move, highlighting its unconstitutional nature and invoking Supreme Court's stay on such orders.

In a striking commentary, AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday equated a recent Uttar Pradesh government order with the draconian policies of Hitler's Germany in the 1930s. Owaisi, addressing a public gathering in Kodangal, Vikarabad, criticized the mandate for business owners to display their names during the Kanwar Yatra, calling it reminiscent of the discriminatory practices under Nazi rule.

Owaisi drew parallels between the current directive and the actions taken against Jews, who were forced to wear the Star of David and faced widespread boycotts. He further emphasized that Article 17 of the Indian Constitution prohibits the promotion of untouchability, underscoring the illegality of such mandates.

Amid the uproar, the Supreme Court has temporarily stayed the implementation of the order. Representing Uttar Pradesh, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi pointed to existing regulations under the Central Law Food and Safety Standards Act, 2006, which require food sellers to display ownership. However, the court clarified that while voluntary compliance is acceptable, coercion is not.

Last week, the Uttar Pradesh government directed food and beverage vendors along the Kanwar Yatra route to prominently display the name and identity of their operators. This directive coincides with the commencement of Kanwar Yatra on July 22, a significant period of pilgrimage and worship. In preparation, Haridwar has bolstered security, organizing the area into multiple zones for efficient management during the sacred month.