Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal has criticized the Uttar Pradesh government’s recent directive requiring food vendors along the Kanwar Yatra route to display their names, calling for a focus on development rather than divisive issues
Sibal argued that the ongoing controversy surrounding the yatra diverts attention from critical economic and political challenges, such as unemployment.
During a press conference, Sibal emphasized that the focus on the Kanwar Yatra is counterproductive to India’s progress. “The current debates over the Kanwar Yatra are not contributing to India’s development. The Prime Minister, Home Minister, and Chief Ministers should avoid such issues and instead address pressing economic and political matters,” he said.
Sibal highlighted the dire job situation, pointing out a recent Uttar Pradesh job listing that received 47 lakh applications for just 60,000 positions. He urged Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Chief Ministers to reconsider the directive, arguing that it distracts from more pressing issues like education and women’s welfare.
In response, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey defended the guidelines, stating that similar regulations were introduced during the previous Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati administrations. He asserted that the law applies equally to all communities and does not constitute religious discrimination.
Amid the controversy, the Haridwar Police have also mandated that eateries on the Kanwar Yatra route display the names of their owners. Haridwar SSP Padmendra Dobal stated that this measure aims to prevent disputes and ensure compliance with legal standards.
Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has condemned the order, calling it a “social crime” that could disrupt regional harmony. He urged the courts to investigate the government’s motives behind the directive.
Muzaffarnagar Police clarified that their intention is not to discriminate but to help devotees by reducing confusion and ensuring order during the yatra. The directive aims to address past issues and facilitate the smooth passage of Kanwariyas.
(With inputs from agency)
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