SC Extends Interim Stay On UP, U’khand, MP Directives For Kanwar Yatra Eateries

The Supreme Court has extended its interim order from July 22, halting directives issued by the BJP-governed states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh.

These directives required eateries along the Kanwar Yatra routes to display details of their owners and staff. The opposition criticized these orders as divisive and discriminatory against Muslims.

The Kanwar Yatra sees a large number of devotees carrying holy water from the Ganga to perform ‘Jalabhishek’ of Shivlings during the Hindu month of Shravan. Many devotees abstain from meat, onions, and garlic during this period.

A bench of Justices Hrishikesh Roy and R Mahadevan, due to lack of time, extended the interim order. Counsel for one of the parties requested an early hearing, noting the Yatra is ongoing and Shravan ends on August 19. The bench agreed to schedule a date without specifying when.

The Uttar Pradesh government defended its directive, claiming it aimed to ensure transparency, avoid confusion, and maintain a peaceful yatra. The Supreme Court had previously stayed the directive, allowing food sellers to display the type of food they serve without being forced to display the identities of owners and employees.

The court was hearing pleas from TMC MP Mahua Moitra, academician Apoorvanand Jha, columnist Aakar Patel, and the NGO Association for Protection of Civil Rights, all challenging the directives. The Shravan month began on July 22 and will end on August 19.