The Uttar Pradesh government has firmly opposed petitions challenging its directive requiring shop owners along the Kanwar Yatra route to prominently display their names. In a detailed submission to the Supreme Court, the state government stated that the directive was issued to ensure a peaceful and orderly pilgrimage.

The Kanwar Yatra, an annual pilgrimage where devotees of Lord Shiva, known as Kanwariyas, travel to fetch holy water from the Ganges River, sees millions of participants each year. The Uttar Pradesh government explained that the directive was introduced in response to specific complaints from Kanwariyas regarding concerns about the food being served along the route and its preparation in line with religious practices.

The state government emphasized that the directive aims to maintain law and order during the pilgrimage. In its submission to the Supreme Court, the government noted that the directive was implemented after complaints from Kanwariyas about confusion caused by the names of shops and eateries. The police authorities acted to address these concerns and ensure a smooth experience for the pilgrims.

Previously, the Supreme Court had temporarily halted the enforcement of this directive, stating that while food sellers may display the types of food they serve, they cannot be compelled to display their names. The state government clarified that there is no ban on food sellers, except for a restriction on selling non-vegetarian items. The requirement to display shop owners’ names is intended to enhance transparency and avoid confusion among pilgrims.

“The directives issued by the State were passed in response to the complaints received from the Kanwariyas regarding confusion caused by the names of the shops and eateries. The police authorities, upon receiving such complaints, took action to address the concerns of the pilgrims and maintain law and order,” the state government stated in its submission.

“The State has imposed no ban or prohibition on the trade or business of the food sellers (except the restriction on selling non-vegetarian food), and they are free to conduct their business as usual. The requirement to display the names and identities of the owners is merely an additional measure to ensure transparency and avoid any potential confusion among the Kanwariyas,” it added.