The Uttar Pradesh government’s mandate requiring food vendors along the Kanwar Yatra route to display licenses and owner nameplates has sparked significant criticism from the opposition. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak defended the move, asserting that consumers have a right to know the identity of sellers. Senior Minister OP Rajbhar stated the government’s intentions are to ensure a peaceful conduct of the festival, with arrangements applicable to all communities. Shama Mohamed, Congress National Spokesperson, labeled the directive as a diversionary tactic, while AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi questioned the timing and implications of the new regulations, citing existing establishments and past peaceful Yatras. The Kanwar Yatra, which commenced on June 10th, involves devotees carrying water from a river to offer at Lord Shiva shrines.
