Uttar Pradesh's Name Display Order for Kanwar Yatra Sparks Backlash

Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary and other political leaders, including KC Tyagi and Akhilesh Yadav, oppose the Uttar Pradesh government's directive for displaying shop owners' names during the Kanwar Yatra. Critics argue the decision harms community harmony and contradicts inclusive governance principles highlighted by PM Modi.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) Chief Jayant Chaudhary has voiced strong opposition to the Uttar Pradesh government's directive for food shops to display owners' names along the Kanwar Yatra route. Speaking on Sunday, Chaudhary criticized the decision as poorly conceived and ill-reasoned. He echoed sentiments shared by Janata Dal (United), asserting that the policy could harm the community's sense of well-being and harmony.

Chaudhary, whose RLD holds significant influence in western Uttar Pradesh and is part of the Modi-led National Democratic Alliance government, emphasized that both the yatris and those serving them should be treated equally. 'This tradition has existed from the beginning without identifying who was serving. This practice of pointing out shop owners is perplexing,' he told ANI.

Amid the controversy in Uttar Pradesh, Haridwar Police Administration also mandated restaurant owners to display their names along the Kanwar Yatra route. Janata Dal (United) leader KC Tyagi called for a review of the order, noting that such restrictions are absent in other states like Bihar, Rajasthan, and Jharkhand. Tyagi argued that the directive violates the inclusive principles of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas' promoted by PM Modi.

Former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav also condemned the move, urging judicial intervention. The Kanwar Yatra, originating from Kumbhnagari Haridwar, symbolizes Hindu-Muslim harmony, with Muslim families dedicating months to crafting the Kanwars. Artisans like Istkar and Abrar, who have been involved in this work for decades, view their efforts as a labor of love that fosters unity and brotherhood within the community.

(With inputs from agencies.)