The Uttar Pradesh government has told the Supreme Court that the order to shops to display the names of owners along the Kanwar Yatra route was to ensure that the religious sentiments of Kanwariyas aren't hurt, "even accidentally", and also for "peace and tranquillity".
The state government further explained that the directive was issued in response to complaints received from Kanwariyas regarding confusion caused by the names of the shops and eateries.
"Past incidents have shown that misunderstandings regarding the type of food being sold have led to tensions and disturbances. The directives are a proactive measure to avoid such situations," it said.
The state government added that the order doesn't impose any ban on the trade or business of food sellers - barring restrictions on the sale of non-veg food - and that shopkeepers are "free to conduct their business as usual". The directive to display the names of owners is "merely an additional measure" to ensure transparency and keep any potential confusion at bay.
