Controversy Erupts Over Muzaffarnagar Police Order

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav labeled a police mandate for eateries to display owner names along the Kanwar Yatra route as a 'social crime.' Bahujan Samaj Party president Mayawati also criticized the order, which opposition parties believe targets Muslim traders. The decision has sparked significant backlash.

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday criticized the Muzaffarnagar police order requiring eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route to display owner names. Yadav called the mandate a 'social crime' and urged courts to take suo motu cognisance.

Bahujan Samaj Party president Mayawati also condemned the order and demanded its immediate withdrawal. Police claim the directive aims to prevent confusion among kanwariyas and maintain law and order.

The order has faced strong opposition, with politicians and civil society members arguing it unfairly targets Muslim traders. Mayawati, posting on 'X,' said the rule could disrupt social harmony and urged the government to retract the policy.

(With inputs from agencies.)