Supreme Court Extends Stay on Controversial Directives During Kanwar Yatra

The Supreme Court on Monday extended its interim order from July 22, halting directives by BJP-ruled states requiring eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route to display owners' names. The opposition deemed the directives divisive. The Yatra, which spans July 22-August 19, involves devotees carrying holy water for religious rituals.

The Supreme Court extended its interim order on Monday, halting the enforcement of directives issued by BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh. These directives required eateries along the Kanwar Yatra routes to display owners' names and other details, a move branded as discriminatory and divisive by opposition parties.

The apex court's extension ensures the Kanwar Yatra proceeds without these controversial orders being enforced. The Yatra, held during the Hindu month of 'Shravan,' involves devotees carrying holy water from the Ganga to perform rituals. Most participants abstain from meat, onions, and garlic during this time.

A bench comprising Justices Hrishikesh Roy and R Mahadevan indicated they could not hear the full matter due to time constraints but promised to schedule a hearing. The interim stay originally came into effect on July 22 and will remain until further notice.

The Uttar Pradesh government defended its directive, claiming the aim was to ensure transparency and avoid confusion. However, the counsel for one of the petitioners argued the necessity for an early hearing as the month of Shravan will end on August 19.

The controversy had drawn various petitions, including those from TMC MP Mahua Moitra, academician Apoorvanand Jha, and columnist Aakar Patel, challenging the directives on the grounds of civil rights violations.

(With inputs from agencies.)