On Sunday, July 14, a group of kanwariyas vandalised the Lucky Shudh Dhaba Bhojnalaya near Meerapur, Muzaffarnagar, claiming the Muslim-owned eatery had no identity displayed during the pilgrimage. They reportedly damaged furniture, kitchen equipment, and ceiling fans, after which police arrived and investigations were launched .

Earlier this month, another incident in Muzaffarnagar saw pilgrims attacking the Tau Hukkewalah Haryanvi Tourist Dhaba after discovering onion slices in their curry - against their dietary oath during the Kanwar Yatra . In that case, no arrests were made, and the pilgrims continued their journey.

These episodes form part of a wider pattern of vigilante actions by some kanwariyas along the route. They have also demanded nameplates on eateries to identify owner religion - a move previously stayed by the Supreme Court . Critics warn this trend is breeding communal tension and undermining the right to safe worship .

Local authorities are now investigating both incidents, warning pilgrims against taking law into their own hands and emphasising that official agencies, not vigilante groups, are authorised to check food safety.