Amid reports of individuals allegedly visiting eateries and questioning shopkeepers about their religious identity along the Kanwar Yatra route in Muzaffarnagar, the local police have issued notices to those involved, reigniting a sharp political exchange between the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The SP alleged the ruling dispensation wants to polarise the society for political gains, even as the BJP hit back accusing the Opposition of doing appeasement politics.
Some persons reportedly associated with Swami Yashveer were seen on July 1 checking nameplates of establishments and asking staff about their religion in the Nai Mandi police station area, as part of what was referred to as a pehchan abhiyan (identity campaign). The incident led to complaints being filed by local shopkeepers.
“We have received a complaint regarding private individuals checking nameplates etc. We issued notices to six people asking for their reply. Necessary step as per law will be taken after receiving the response of notices,” Rupali Rao, Circle Officer, Nai Mandi, told The Hindu.
Reacting sharply, SP spokesperson Ameeque Jamei said, “It is a tactic by the BJP to target people of a particular identity and create division in society. Kanwar Yatra is a very sacred ritual in our country and everyone respects it. Some people associated with vested interests are trying to create unrest. The administration should take serious note and make sure such incidents are not repeated in future.” He further questioned the legality of private individuals conducting such identity checks.
On the other hand, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak criticised the SP for what he termed appeasement politics. “The SP leaders are constantly making rubbish statements on Kanwar Yatra. They are comparing Kanwar Yatra devotees with terrorists. It is highly condemnable,” Mr. Pathak said, without specifying which particular statement he was referring to.
He further stated, “The SP wants to implement Sharia law and do appeasement politics in U.P. We are determined to organise a systematic and safe Kanwar Yatra in U.P. It is the right of every buyer to know from whom they are buying things. It is the duty of every seller to display their name.”
The annual Kanwar Yatra, a pilgrimage undertaken by Lord Shiva’s devotees, is scheduled this year between July 11 and 23. Last year, the Uttar Pradesh Government had made it mandatory for food and beverage establishments along the Kanwar routes to display the name and identity of the operator or owner prominently.
Published – July 03, 2025 09:59 pm IST
