Mumbai: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Kangana Ranaut has questioned actor Sonu Sood's stand on the Uttar Pradesh government's directive for food shops on the Kanwar Yatra route to display their owners' names.

Sonu Sood took to X to express his views on the matter, stating, "There should be only one name plate on every shop: "HUMANITY" This statement sparked a wave of backlash on social media, with many interpreting it as a critique of the government's directive.

After his post stating that only "humanity" should be displayed on shop nameplates, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut questioned the actos' stand on Friday. The debate stems from the Uttar Pradesh government order mandating the display of owners' names on shops and eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route.

This statement received backlash from several social media users tagging it as a critique of the government's directive. Reacting to Sonu Sood's stance, Kangana Ranaut said, "Agree, Halal should be replaced with "HUMANITY."

The Uttar Pradesh government's directive mandates that food and beverage shops along the Kanwar Yatra route display the name and identity of their operators to maintain the sanctity of the pilgrims' faith. This includes taking action against those selling halal-certified products.

Screenwriter Javed Akhtar also weighed in on the controversy, drawing a historical parallel that stirred further debate. "Muzaffarnagar UP police has given instructions that on the route of a particular religious procession in near future all the shops, restaurants, and even vehicles should show the name of the owner prominently and clearly. Why? In Nazi Germany, they used to make only a mark on particular shops and houses," Akhtar posted on X.

The directive by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has not only sparked a social media outcry but also led to a political slugfest between the BJP and opposition parties. The opposition has criticized the move, alleging it fosters religious discrimination and targets specific communities.

Supporters of the directive argue it is essential to ensure the sanctity and safety of the Kanwar Yatra pilgrims. "This measure is about transparency and respect for the faith of the pilgrims," said a BJP spokesperson. "It's unfortunate that some people are politicizing it."

ANI