In a significant move, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced a ban on the production, storage, distribution, and sale of products carrying the Halal certification in the state. This decision comes after the state government received complaints about companies unlawfully certifying everyday essential products as Halal.
The Chief Minister's office issued an official order stating that the ban on products with the Halal certification is effective immediately. The government asserts that such practices have been facilitating illegal activities, including funding for terrorist organizations and anti-national activities.
The ban aims to curb the misuse of the Halal certification label, which was reportedly being applied to a range of routine consumer goods. The government acted in response to complaints highlighting that some companies were exploiting the certification for products that do not traditionally require such religious endorsements.
Yogi Adityanath's administration has expressed concerns about the potential involvement of unlawful businesses and the associated funding of extremist groups through the illegitimate earnings generated by misusing the Halal certification. The decision is seen as a proactive measure to safeguard public interest and prevent any unlawful economic activities that could have security implications.
This ban marks a significant step by the Uttar Pradesh government in addressing the misuse of religious certifications for commercial gains. It reflects the commitment to ensuring the integrity of certifications and preventing their exploitation for purposes other than their intended use.