UP News:A new dispute has emerged in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, after a complaint filed on the CM portal by lawyer Shebi Sharma. The lawyer alleged that some Muslim band operators in the city are running their companies under the names of Hindu gods and goddesses while concealing their identity. The matter soon landed before the police, leaving officials in a tricky position.
Police Call Both Parties, Seek Clarification
Following the complaint, police summoned both sides and held talks. According to reports, officers informally suggested that the band operators remove the names of Hindu deities from their businesses. The band members, however, requested time to consider the demand, stating that they have been operating with the same names for years. No formal order has yet been issued by the police.
SP City Confirms Ongoing Probe
The controversy eventually reached SP City Kumar Ranvijay Singh, who confirmed that the matter is under investigation. “A complaint letter was received. Both parties were called on Tuesday, and their statements have been recorded. Further action is being processed,” he said.
Divided Public Opinion
The case has sparked debate in Moradabad. While some residents argue that the complaint is unnecessary and aimed at targeting the Muslim community, others support the lawyer’s claim, saying that Muslim operators should not use names of Hindu gods for their bands. The issue has also raised concerns about the impact on communal harmony in the district, which often finds itself in the spotlight for controversies.
Band Owners Fear Losses in Wedding Season
Band operators, particularly from the Muslim community—who run at least 20 major bands out of nearly 500 in the city—have expressed concern about the timing of the controversy. They say that any forced name change before December would severely affect them during the peak wedding season. “If we are compelled to change names now, we will face heavy losses,” a band owner said.
Lawyer Demands Strict Action
On the other hand, lawyer Shebi Sharma insists that just as action was taken against hotels on the Kanwar route using the names of Hindu gods while being run by other communities, similar steps must be taken against these band operators. He stressed that the complaint is meant to uphold respect for religious sentiments.
