After Hijab Row, Muslim Traders Barred From Putting Up Stalls At Temples & Fairs

Bengaluru: With the dust yet to fully settle on the hijab row, there’s another controversy brewing in Karnataka.

Posters have been put in different parts of Karnataka, especially coastal areas, saying that non-Hindu traders will not be allowed to put up stalls at temples, festivals and annual fairs in the state.

In a message to traders from Muslim community, some posters stated that those who engaged in cow slaughter won’t be allowed to do business at local annual fairs. The message in other posters was that people who don’t respect law of the land will not be allowed to do business.

Several Muslim shopkeepers in Bengaluru and adjoining areas had downed shutters temporarily to protest against the Karnataka High Court’s judgment upholding the ban on hijab in educational institutions.

Muslim traders had closed shops in Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, Mysuru, Chamarajanagar and Kalaburagi districts as well.

According to reports, Mahalingeshwara Temple organization has barred Muslims from participating in the auction. Hosa Marigudi temple in Udupi district has also denied permission to Muslims to set up stalls.

Karnataka’s Home minister Araga Jnanendra has sought reports from police.

“I have seen this (Muslim traders not being allowed to set up stalls at temples) in media. I have sought reports from the police officials. The state government is keeping a close watch and will take action to avert any untoward incident,” Jnanendra said.

Vishva Hindu Parishad leader Sharan Pumpwell backed the call to ban traders belonging to Muslim community, as too many atrocities are being committed on the Hindu community.