On Monday, the Supreme Court of India barred Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand from implementing guidelines requiring restaurants on Kanwar Yatra routes to display the names of their owners. The decision has received widespread praise from political parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party’s ally Janata Dal (United), and is seen by many opposition parties as a measure to bridge social divisions.
What is the guideline?
The Uttar Pradesh government has ordered food and beverage shops along the Kanwar Yatra routes not to identify the operators or owners. The directive was seen as a controversial move, potentially leading to social divisions based on religion and sect.
Why did the Supreme Court intervene?
The Supreme Court, through Justices Hrishikesh Rai and SVN Bhatti, pointed out that while food vendors can disclose the type of food they serve to passengers, making it mandatory to disclose their own names is not acceptable. The intervention was seen as necessary to prevent an escalation of social conflict and to observe the principles of equality and non-discrimination.
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There are political reactions to the decision
Expressing gratitude to the Supreme Court, JD(U) spokesperson KC Tyagi said, "We feared that the law would divide the society. I am grateful that the Supreme Court took its view on the matter. The sentiment, Lok Jana Shakti Party also reiterated." (Ram Vilas) and Rashtriya Lok Dal leaders, both of whom.” The impugned orders were challenged even earlier.
Opposition support
Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav, among others, also hailed the temporary stay. Khera hoped that the senior ministers would stick more to the ‘royal religion’, while Yadav stressed the role of courts in protecting the Constitution from divisive politics.
The role of the judiciary in maintaining constitutional integrity
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant highlighted the vital role played by the judiciary in upholding the integrity of the constitution and said, "The Supreme Court has done the job of saving the Constitution. Such dirty politics." , the ruling BJP."
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How does this affect society?
The Supreme Court decision marks an important response to potentially divisive elements in society. By preventing the implementation of such directives, the court has ensured that commercial activities on Kanwar transport corridors are inclusive and non-discriminatory, creating a sense of harmony and communal harmony.
Problems addressed by the decision:
Social Segmentation: Prevents possible social divisions based on the composition of local food vendors.
Protection of rights: Supports principles of equality and non-discrimination.
Judicial oversight: Refers to the role of the judiciary in maintaining the integrity of the legislature and safeguarding against divisive policies.
conclusion
The Supreme Court’s intervention against directives seeking to identify restaurant owners on Kanwar Yatra routes is a significant step towards maintaining social harmony and protecting constitutional values. The decision, widely hailed by political allies and opposition groups, highlights the importance of judicial oversight in preventing divisive policies and protecting individual rights.