Supreme Court Stays UP Government's Directive on Nameplates During Kanwar Yatra

The Supreme Court intervened on Monday to halt the Uttar Pradesh government's recent directives requiring shop owners to display their nameplates during the Kanwar Yatra. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on July 26.

The Supreme Court has issued notices to all states where such religious processions, like the Kanwar Yatra, are held annually.

The Significance of Kanwar Yatra in Hindu Tradition

The Kanwar Yatra, originating from Kumbhnagari Haridwar, is celebrated as a symbol of Hindu-Muslim unity.

Each year, millions of devotees of Lord Shiva visit Haridwar during the month of Sawan to collect holy water from the Ganges. The Kanwars, which devotees carry during this pilgrimage, are meticulously crafted by Muslim families in the Haridwar district. This tradition involves months of dedicated effort by community members of all ages, emphasizing communal harmony.

Controversy Surrounding UP Government's Directive

The Uttar Pradesh government's directive sparked widespread criticism from various political leaders and opposition figures, accusing the Yogi government of promoting division.

Earlier, the Muzaffarnagar Police had encouraged eateries to voluntarily display the names of their owners and employees along the Kanwar Yatra routes. They clarified that this initiative aimed to assist devotees and not discriminate based on religious grounds.

Reaction from Political Leaders

Asaduddin Owaisi, President of the All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), condemned the directive as reflective of anti-Muslim sentiment in India.

Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal criticized the move, questioning its alignment with the vision of a developed India.

Brinda Karat, a leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), likened the directive to tactics used by Nazi Germany, alleging it undermines India's constitutional values.

Public Figures and Celebrities Speak Out

Actor Sonu Sood expressed his views, advocating for unity under a single nameplate of "HUMANITY" in every shop.

Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, echoing widespread sentiment, urged the Supreme Court to intervene proactively in this matter.

In conclusion, the directive regarding nameplates during the Kanwar Yatra has ignited a significant debate across political and social spheres, highlighting broader concerns about religious tolerance and communal harmony in India.