BJP Defends Muzaffarnagar Police Order Amid Criticism

The BJP defended the Muzaffarnagar Police's directive for eateries to display their names, claiming it offers fasting Hindus a choice to eat at pure veg restaurants. Amit Malviya highlighted the alleged hypocrisy of secularists criticizing the order, stating that similar practices exist in other states without issue.

The BJP on Thursday defended the Muzaffarnagar Police's order requiring all eateries and carts selling food to display their names. The party argued that the measure provides fasting Hindus with an option to dine at pure vegetarian restaurants, enhancing the likelihood of them being served Satvik food.

Amit Malviya, head of BJP's IT department, addressed the issue on X, asserting, ''India's 'secularism' can't be so fragile that a uniform order asking all eateries to display the name and contact number of the owner or workers should disrupt it.'' He noted that a similar practice has been in place in Mumbai's business district for nearly two decades.

Criticizing the opposition, Malviya said, ''If food choice and Halal compliance are significant for some, then fasting Hindus seeking Satvik food deserve the same respect. Is giving Hindus the right to choose a sin?'' He further accused critics of ignoring similar practices and of harbouring biased outrage against the directive.

The Congress party, however, condemned the order, calling it an assault on India's culture. Muzaffarnagar Police Chief Abhishek Singh explained that the directive is meant to avoid confusion among Kanwariyas and maintain law and order, adding that it is being followed voluntarily by all concerned.

(With inputs from agencies.)