Is Selling Biryani or Chicken Mandatory During Kanwar Yatra?
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Synopsis
As the Kanwar Yatra approaches, a contentious debate ignites over the temporary closure of meat shops along the route and the requirement for food establishments to display ownership details. Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi defends these measures against accusations of religious appeasement, emphasizing the importance of respecting religious sentiments during this sacred time.
Key Takeaways
- Kanwar Yatra begins on July 11.
- Temporary closure of meat shops along the route.
- Mandatory display of QR codes at food establishments.
- Debate on religious sentiments versus constitutional rights.
- Criticism of politicization of religious events.
New Delhi, July 3 (NationPress) As the annual Kanwar Yatra approaches, commencing on July 11, a heated debate has erupted regarding the temporary shutdown of meat shops along the yatra route and the obligatory display of the owner's name at food establishments in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Delhi.
In Uttar Pradesh, the administration in Meerut has mandated that all food outlets along the Kanwar Yatra path must present a QR code that pilgrims can scan to access information about the establishment’s ownership, compliance status, and a list of food offerings along with their prices.
The Opposition has accused BJP-led states of practicing religious appeasement and has questioned the constitutional legitimacy of such measures.
In a strong rebuttal, senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi criticized the Opposition for politicizing religious festivities for communal benefits.
Speaking to IANS in New Delhi, Naqvi remarked, "Is it obligatory to sell Biryani or chicken during the Kanwar Yatra? While some may argue that it is their constitutional right to sell Biryani, we must also consider the religious sentiments of others."
Naqvi called for all communities to uphold the sanctity and purity of religious occasions, warning against injecting communal tensions into matters of faith.
“It is our shared duty to ensure that social harmony is preserved. Sadly, some individuals wish to add a communal aspect to every issue,” he stated, without naming any political party.
This controversy has ignited discussions, with Opposition members arguing that the selective application of rules during Hindu festivals is both unconstitutional and divisive.
However, BJP representatives assert that honoring religious sentiments during specific periods reflects cultural sensitivity rather than discrimination.
Naqvi also criticized Congress MP Rahul Gandhi for casting doubt on the electoral results in Maharashtra and the electoral roll revision in Bihar, accusing him of undermining democratic institutions.
"Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party can't accept that they've consistently been ousted from power through democratic elections. Hence, they keep questioning the credibility of the Election Commission and even doubt the election results, which is an affront to democracy," he stated.
He charged the Congress with suffering from a "power entitlement syndrome," asserting that the party believes remaining in power is its birthright. “This tantrum-driven politics is not only undemocratic but also poses a threat to the country’s democratic values,” Naqvi added.
As the Kanwar Yatra draws near and political tensions escalate, this debate highlights the increasing intertwining of religion and politics within India’s public dialogue.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the multifaceted dynamics at play in this issue. The intersection of religion and politics is becoming increasingly pronounced in India’s public discourse, and it is crucial to approach such matters with sensitivity and an unbiased perspective. While respecting religious sentiments is vital, the implications of selective enforcement must also be critically examined to maintain the integrity of democratic values.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are meat shops closed during the Kanwar Yatra?
Meat shops are temporarily closed during the Kanwar Yatra to respect the religious sentiments of the pilgrims participating in the festival.
What is the mandatory display required for food establishments?
Food establishments along the Kanwar Yatra route are required to display a QR code that provides information about ownership and compliance status.
What accusations has the Opposition made regarding these measures?
The Opposition has accused BJP-led states of practicing religious appeasement and challenged the constitutional validity of the directives.
What did Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi say regarding Biryani sales?
Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi questioned whether it is necessary to sell Biryani or chicken during the Kanwar Yatra, emphasizing the need to consider religious sentiments.
How has the Congress party responded to the situation?
The Congress party has raised concerns about the selective enforcement of rules during Hindu festivals, claiming it is unconstitutional and divisive.
