A recent case in Bahraich over the alleged misuse of the trademark “Bismillah” has sparked concerns about double standards faced by Muslim traders. Police registered an FIR against eight traders following a complaint from Vijay Agrawal, owner of Bhagwati Traders in Lucknow, claiming his trademarked brand was being used to sell low-quality food items.
The FIR names several traders, including Savita Malani, Savitri Devi Malani, Nitesh Kumar Malani, Narendra Kumar Malani, Amit Agrawal alias Tinku, and Manzoor. The case is filed under Section 63 of the Copyright Act and Section 318(4) of the IPC for cheating.
Agrawal stated that his company sells halal food products nationwide and alleged that fake packets carrying his brand were being sold, endangering public health and harming the company’s reputation.
Local Muslim traders, however, raised concerns about bias. They noted that non-Muslims using Islamic names such as “Bismillah” are often accepted, while Muslims face scrutiny or intimidation when using common or Hindu-sounding shop names. Similar incidents have occurred in other states, including a salon owner in Dehradun.
The controversy also reflects ongoing tension over halal certification, which has faced protests and government restrictions in Uttar Pradesh. Halal-certified products are vital for trade with over 50 Muslim-majority countries, and Indian authorities’ certifications are recognized internationally.