Communal Profiling Sparks Tensions: Identity Scanning Incident at Vaishno Dhaba in Uttar Pradesh Raises Alarms

A disturbing incident has surfaced from Vaishno Dhaba in Uttar Pradesh, where tensions flared after members of a Hindu organization reportedly confronted the dhaba staff over their identities. The incident unfolded when the group demanded to see Aadhaar cards of those working at the establishment. Upon refusal, they allegedly used a scanner to reveal the names of the workers, claiming they were Muslim individuals operating under Hindu business names. The group accused the operators of misleading the public by naming the dhaba after Hindu deities while secretly following what they labeled as "jihadi ideology." They further alleged that food items prohibited during the holy Shravan month, such as garlic and onion, were being served to unaware Kanwar pilgrims, thus "defiling" their faith and causing conflict. This vigilante-style identity policing led to chaos and fear, forcing some staff members to flee. Despite the Supreme Court ruling in July 2024 that businesses are not mandated to display owner names publicly, such demands have resurfaced. The presence of ABP News and viral visuals have brought the matter to national attention. Critics argue this represents a growing trend of communal vigilantism, questioning the silence or inaction of law enforcement. An official investigation is now being demanded