Muslim business owners in Gujarat are strongly criticizing the state government’s recent move to cancel licenses of several establishments, arguing that the action is a thinly veiled attack on Muslim-run businesses.
Many believe that the government is using the guise of regulation to target Muslim communities and reinforce harmful religious stereotypes.
Asim Qureshi, a member of the Gujarat Muslim Business Association, stated, “This action doesn’t just harm businesses; it harms the very principles of equality and fairness that should underpin any democratic society. We are being penalised for being Muslim, and that is something no community should have to face in a country that prides itself on its pluralism.”
The license cancellations come amid a broader pattern of similar policies in other states, including Uttar Pradesh, where Muslim hotel owners were ordered to display their names on signboards.
Critics fear that Gujarat is following this trend, which many view as an attempt to push Muslim businesses out of public life.
Zahida Khan, a resident of Godhra, shared her frustration, saying, “It’s painful to see our community being treated like this. It’s as if we have to hide who we are to survive in this society. This is not just about business; it’s about our dignity, our right to exist peacefully.”
The impact of these policies extends beyond the economic struggles of affected businesses. Hotel owners now face further challenges, with some establishments being excluded from receiving GSRTC bus passengers, severely limiting their customer base.
One business owner expressed concern, stating, “We’ve already been facing tough times due to the ongoing political climate. This will only make it harder for us to survive.”
