Controversy Erupts Over Uttar Pradesh Order on Kanwar Yatra Eateries

A political storm has erupted over the Uttar Pradesh government's order asking eateries on the Kanwar Yatra route to display owners' names. BJP allies and opposition have criticized the move as discriminatory, urging a review. The Kanwar Yatra is set to commence on July 22.

A political storm has erupted over the Uttar Pradesh government's directive mandating eateries on the Kanwar Yatra route to display the names of their owners. The Janata Dal (United), a BJP ally, has called for a review or withdrawal of the order, arguing it violates the principles of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas,' a mantra championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Prominent JD(U) leader KC Tyagi pointed out that no such directive exists in Bihar, Rajasthan, or Jharkhand, despite the occurrence of larger Kanwar Yatras in those states. The Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) also condemned the order, calling it 'absolutely wrong' and inconsistent with the ideals of prominent freedom fighters who advocated for a separation between religion and governance.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath justified the order, stressing that it aims to maintain the sanctity of the faith and ensure cleanliness along the route. However, opposition voices, including AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi and Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav, slammed the directive as discriminatory. The Kanwar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage for Lord Shiva devotees, is set to begin on July 22.