Kanwar Yatra nameplate controversy: UP government files reply in Supreme Court

New Delhi| The Uttar Pradesh government has filed its reply in the Supreme Court in the matter of ordering shopkeepers to install nameplates on the Kanwar Yatra route. The UP government, in its reply, has said that the instructions issued by the state were made following complaints received from Kanwariyas about confusion over the names of shops and eateries. It said that after receiving such complaints, police officials took this action to address the concerns of the pilgrims and maintain law and order in the state.

‘It is an additional measure for transparency’

In its reply filed in the Supreme Court, the UP government has said that the state has not imposed any restrictions or prohibitions on the trade or business of food vendors (except the ban on selling non-vegetarian food), and they are free to carry on their business normally. The government has said that the requirement to display the names and identities of the owners is just an additional measure to ensure transparency and avoid any possible confusion among Kanwariyas. Let us tell you that the apex court will hear this matter on 26th July, 2024.

Uttar Pradesh government opposed the petitions

The Uttar Pradesh government has opposed the petitions filed in the nameplate controversy, saying that the press release was issued solely in public interest to ensure the peaceful completion of the Kanwar Yatra, in which more than 4.07 crore Kanwariyas participate annually. It says that the government is committed to protecting the religious sentiments of people of any religion. Government said, ‘being committed to the secular values enshrined in our Constitution, protects the religious sentiments of every person, irrespective of his religion. The State always takes steps to ensure that festivals of all religions are celebrated peacefully.’