Supreme Court Halts Uttarakhand, UP Orders for Kanwar Yatra Eatery Staff Disclosure

Photo: PTI

Supreme Court Stays Kanwar Yatra Orders on Eateries

On Monday, the Supreme Court issued an interim stay on the enforcement of directives from the Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand governments, which required eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route to disclose the names of owners and staff. The court's decision temporarily halts these requirements, aiming to address concerns raised by various petitioners.

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Background of the Case

The Supreme Court's intervention comes in response to multiple challenges to the government orders. NGOs, including the Association of Protection of Civil Rights, and TMC MP Mahua Moitra have raised objections. Moitra's plea argued that the directives could heighten community tensions and lead to economic discrimination.

Petitioners’ counsel expressed concerns that the directives could exacerbate divisions by identifying minority communities, potentially leading to economic boycotts. Senior advocate CU Singh, representing one of the petitioners, highlighted the plight of small vendors such as vegetable and tea stall owners, who could face severe economic difficulties and potential punitive actions if they do not comply.

Court’s Ruling and Observations

The Supreme Court questioned whether the Kanwariyas, the Hindu devotees participating in the yatra, have specific expectations about who should prepare their food. The bench remarked that while food sellers might need to display the type of food offered, they should not be compelled to reveal personal details of their staff or owners.

In its interim order, the Supreme Court prohibited the enforcement of the directives, thus providing temporary relief to food sellers. The court scheduled a hearing on the matter for July 26, allowing time for a more comprehensive review of the issues.

Context and Government Responses

The controversy began when the Muzaffarnagar police issued an order requiring eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route to display the names of their owners. This order was later extended statewide by the Uttar Pradesh government. Similarly, Uttarakhand, governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), issued similar directives. Additionally, the BJP-led Ujjain Municipal Corporation had instructed shop owners in Ujjain to display their names and mobile numbers outside their establishments.

In response to the Supreme Court's stay, BJP spokesperson Jugal Kishore stated that the government will present its position in court. No representatives from the state governments were present at the hearing on Monday.

Next Steps

The Supreme Court’s interim order provides temporary relief to the affected eateries and sets the stage for further legal deliberations. The July 26 hearing will be crucial in determining the future of these directives and addressing the concerns raised by the petitioners.

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