Supreme Court Stays Order on Writing Names on Dhabas and Shops for Kanwar Pilgrims
Supreme Court imposes interim stay on writing names on dhabas and shops for Kanwar pilgrims, questioning the economic boycott of minorities. The court has issued notices to UP, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh governments.
The Supreme Court has imposed an interim stay on the order requiring dhabas and shops along the Kanwar pilgrimage route to display the names of their owners and employees. The court stated that there is no need for these establishments to reveal their identities. Notices have been issued to the Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh governments in this matter following a petition filed by the NGO Association of Civil Rights. The court has requested a response by Friday, July 26.
Allegations of Economic Boycott of Muslims
During the hearing, the petitioner’s advocate, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, argued that the order to display names on shops and dhabas is leading to an economic boycott of minorities by exposing their identities. Singhvi emphasized that this situation is concerning and pointed out that Hindus also run many pure vegetarian restaurants with Muslim employees. He questioned whether it is fair to avoid eating at these establishments because the food is prepared and served by Muslims or Dalits.
Court Seeks Clarity on the Order
The Supreme Court inquired whether the order was a press statement or a formal directive. Singhvi explained that it began as a press statement but became mandatory amid rising tensions. He stressed that the Kanwar Yatra has been a multi-faith effort for decades, with people of all religions contributing, and now certain groups are being excluded.
From Muzaffarnagar to Statewide Implementation
The directive to display names started in Muzaffarnagar, where SSP Abhishek Singh ordered hotels, dhabas, and even fruit carts to display names to allow Kanwar pilgrims to choose shops based on preference. The controversy grew when UP CM Yogi Adityanath expanded the order statewide, leading to widespread protests. Opposition parties, including the Congress, SP, BSP, and BJP allies like RLD president Jayant Chaudhary and JDU, also opposed the order. Subsequently, Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh implemented similar directives.
Justice Bhatti’s Remarks
During the hearing, Justice ACVN Bhatti addressed the issue of identification and economic boycott, cautioning against exaggerating the situation. He highlighted the importance of security, standards, and secularism, sharing a personal anecdote from Kerala. Justice Bhatti mentioned choosing a Muslim-run vegetarian hotel over a Hindu-run one because it was cleaner, emphasizing that such choices are personal and should not be politicized.
The Supreme Court’s interim stay provides temporary relief to shop and dhaba owners along the Kanwar pilgrimage route. As the court awaits responses from the Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh governments, the debate over religious and economic discrimination continues. The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for how religious and economic identities are handled in public spaces in India.
