Muslims should be allowed to trade : Muslim Traders Assn. demands

• Since the traders also protested against Karnataka High Court’s decision regarding hijab, they are banned from trading in Hindu fairs
• Case of ban on Muslim traders at Kapu Marigudi fair in Udupi

Editorial comment

This shows what happens if Hindus take a firm stand. Now, it should not be a surprise if Hindus everywhere take such a stand.

Udupi (Karnataka) – Muslim traders should be allowed to trade in Karavali festival, chariot festivals and religious functions, including the Kapu Marigudi fair in the District, demanded Mohammad Arif, head of the traders association. The Karnataka High Court had ruled that wearing a hijab in educational institutions was not mandatory. A Bandh was observed in some parts of the State to oppose the decision. It was also observed by Muslims who set up shops in Hindu temples. As a result, their shops are now denied permission.

Arif said, “For many years, we have maintained religious unity by trading in Hindu religious programmes but recently, restrictions are being imposed on Muslim traders in Hindu programmes. Muslims have been banned due to strike by Muslim traders expressing dissatisfaction against the Court’s decision in the Hijab case but we are all street retailers and we did not approve of the closure, but our trade is still banned. We have been behaving in such a way that the feelings of Hindus should not be hurt. We will continue to do the same, understand each other. Let go of hatred and live in harmony”.