Moradabad: In Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, Muslim owners of band baja groups, traditional music ensembles, face a directive to remove names of Hindu gods and goddesses from their businesses. The order follows complaints lodged on the Chief Minister’s portal, prompting swift action from local police. The issue mirrors earlier disputes over dhabas and restaurants with Hindu names run by Muslims.
Advocate Shebi Sharma, a resident of Pakbada, filed a complaint stating that people from a particular religious community operate bands under names of Hindu deities, offending religious sentiments. Approximately 15 to 20 Muslim-owned bands in Moradabad use such names, according to the complaint. The city’s police administration responded promptly. On Tuesday, SP City Kumar Ranvijay Singh summoned band operators to his office, instructing them to immediately change their business names. All operators assured compliance.
The controversy echoes tensions during the Kanwar Yatra, when similar objections were raised against dhabas with Hindu names owned by Muslims. One such dispute on a Moradabad highway sparked protests. Across Uttar Pradesh, several incidents of unrest occurred over similar issues. In Moradabad, which has over 500 band baja groups, the police are now investigating to ensure adherence to the directive.
Authorities aim to prevent religious discord, particularly in a district with a balanced Hindu-Muslim population. The police have not issued a formal order but are enforcing the name changes to maintain harmony. Band owners, reliant on these businesses for livelihoods, face challenges as renaming could affect their brand identity. The situation remains under close watch to avoid escalation.
