In a pivotal decision, the Supreme Court on Monday halted the mandate from various states requiring shop owners and hawkers to display their names outside their premises during the Kanwar Yatra season.
Authorities in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Haridwar have mandated that all eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route must display the names of their owners saying that the measure was intended to enhance transparency and preserve the integrity of the pilgrimage experience.
This ruling came in response to the petition “Association for Protection of Civil Rights vs. State of Uttar Pradesh and Ors.”
The mandate had ignited controversy, with many arguing that it disproportionately targeted vulnerable minorities and the economically disadvantaged.
The Supreme Court’s ruling underscored the necessity of upholding constitutional principles and preventing discriminatory practices by state authorities.
Nadeem Khan, National Secretary of the Association for Protection of Civil Rights, lauded the decision as a triumph for justice and equality.
In his statement, Khan remarked, “The Supreme Court’s order is a powerful reminder to states that hate and divisiveness will not prevail over the law and Constitution. This decision reaffirms that actions targeting minorities and the poor will not be tolerated, highlighting that no authority is above constitutional justice. It represents a decisive stand against the politics of hatred and outdated colonial-era practices, reinforcing that true governance is grounded in equality and justice for all.”