New Delhi: A controversial policy in Uttar Pradesh, mandating that eateries display the names of all employees, has resulted in significant job losses and the closure of businesses owned by Muslims.

According to Kashmir Media Service, this policy, introduced under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has been criticized for disproportionately affecting Muslim workers and business owners. The directive has been accused of fostering discrimination and hostility towards Muslims, a community already grappling with challenges since the administration’s inception in 2017.

Critics highlight that this name-display rule, which has also been adopted in Himachal Pradesh by the Congress party, ostensibly for health and safety compliance, is being used to marginalize Muslim-owned establishments. The implementation has led to adverse effects, including the fostering of an environment conducive to violence and economic discrimination against Muslims.

In Uttar Pradesh, the repercussions are evident as some restaurant owners have felt compelled to dismiss Muslim employees over safety fears. Rafiq, a restaurant owner, cited the termination of four Muslim staff after police pressure to comply with the new rule.

Furthermore, there has been an increase in targeted harassment and calls for the economic boycotting of Muslim vendors, intensifying community tensions. A leader from the Bajrang Dal has explicitly called for supporters to avoid Muslim shops, exacerbating the situation.