NEW DELHI, July 22, 2024 – The Supreme Court’s decision to stay the order mandating nameplates on food shops along the Kanwar Yatra route has profound implications for fundamental rights in India. This coverage explores the critical aspects of the case, the arguments presented, and the broader implications for constitutional rights.
Supreme Court Stops Kanwar Yatra Order
- Supreme Court Stay: The Supreme Court has halted the enforcement of an order requiring shopkeepers to display their names on food shops along the Kanwar Yatra route.
- Petitioners: The case was brought to the court by the NGO Association of Protection of Civil Rights (APCR), TMC MP Mahua Moitra, and social activists Apoorvanand and Aakar Patel.
- Fundamental Rights Violation: Petitioners argued that the order violated Articles 14, 15, 17, and 19 of the Constitution, which guarantee equality, non-discrimination, abolition of untouchability, and freedom of profession.
Petitioners’ Arguments
During the hearing, the petitioners’ lawyers argued that the order mandating nameplates on shops disproportionately impacted minority communities, thereby violating their fundamental rights. The Supreme Court’s bench took note of these arguments and issued an interim stay on the order, pending further review.
CU Singh (Lawyer for APCR): “This order not only violates the fundamental rights of shopkeepers but also promotes discrimination and untouchability.”
Abhishek Manu Singhvi (Lawyer for Mahua Moitra): “The directive to display names on shops is a clear violation of the constitutional guarantee of equality and non-discrimination.”
Justice Rishikesh Roy: “The court must carefully examine the implications of this order on the fundamental rights of citizens.”
Kanwar Yatra Order Sparks Controversy
The Kanwar Yatra sees millions of devotees traveling across various states, making it a significant event with widespread impact. The order to display shopkeepers’ names has sparked debates about its necessity and the potential for discrimination.
The Kanwar Yatra has a long history as a major Hindu pilgrimage. The recent order has added a new layer of complexity, highlighting the tension between religious practices and constitutional rights. Critics argue that such mandates could deepen social divides and undermine the secular principles enshrined in the Constitution.
Announcements
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for July 26, where it will review the responses from the state governments and further examine the potential violations of fundamental rights.
The Supreme Court’s stay on the Kanwar Yatra nameplate order is a significant development in the ongoing debate over religious practices and constitutional rights in India. The upcoming hearing will be crucial in determining the balance between these aspects and ensuring the protection of fundamental rights for all citizens.
For more information and updates, visit the Supreme Court official website.
