Bullion market posters refuse service to customers in burqa, veil or mask; Muslim families say rule singles them out, restricts dignity and faith
JHANSI — A strict order issued by traders in the bullion market of Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh has caused anger and worry among Muslim residents after jewellery shops announced they would not sell gold or silver to anyone whose face is covered, including women wearing burqas or veils.
The decision was taken by the Bullion Traders’ Board after reports of theft and fraud in the market. Large posters have been put up in and outside many shops saying customers must remove masks, burqas or veils before jewellery is shown or sold. The rule applies to men and women, traders claim.
Yet many Muslim families say the move has a direct and unfair effect on their women who cover their faces as part of faith and personal choice.
A local resident, Shabnam Begum, said, “I have been buying jewellery from this market for years. Now I am told to remove my veil or go away. This hurts my self-respect and my religion.”
Traders say thefts have risen in recent months. They claim accused persons often enter shops with covered faces, distract staff while checking ornaments, and then steal items.
Rakesh Verma, a jewellery shop owner, said, “Gold and silver are costly. We cannot take risks. Many thefts happened where faces were hidden. This rule is for safety and is same for all.”
The Bullion Traders’ Association said shopkeepers had complained many times to the police but crimes continued. They say the posters are only meant to inform customers in advance so arguments do not happen inside shops.
Muslim leaders and rights activists question this logic. They say crime control is the duty of police, not private traders, and that blanket rules punish ordinary customers.
Maulana Arshad Qasmi, a local cleric, said, “If a crime happens, find the criminal. Do not blame clothes. Burqa is not a crime. This order treats Muslim women as suspects.”
Several women said they now avoid the bullion market out of fear and shame. A young woman, who did not want to reveal her name, said, “Men stare when we remove our veil. We feel unsafe. Why should we choose between faith and shopping?”
Critics also point out that no clear data has been shared to show that crimes were done by women in burqas. They say CCTV cameras, guards and police checks would protect shops without hurting any community.
A social worker from Jhansi said, “Such steps add to fear among Muslims. First madrasas are questioned, now women’s dress is targeted. This creates distance between communities.”
Police officials have not issued any written order on face coverings in markets. A senior officer said traders are free to take steps inside their shops but added that complaints of discrimination would be looked into.
The issue has become a talking point across Jhansi. Some customers support the rule, calling it a safety step. Many others say it crosses a line and places the burden of crime on Muslim women.
For now, the posters remain in place, and Muslim families say they are left with fewer choices. As one elderly resident said quietly, “We only want to live with respect. Safety should not come at the cost of our dignity.”
