A new security protocol requiring customers to show their faces has been instituted at jewelry stores throughout Chhattisgarh. The Chhattisgarh Sarafa Association has banned the entry of individuals wearing face coverings, including masks, burqas, and helmets, citing an urgent need to enhance safety following a significant robbery in Rajim. This policy is designed to prevent criminals from hiding their identities and to assist authorities in identifying perpetrators.
The association’s president, Kamal Soni, affirmed that the directive is a non-discriminatory safety measure aimed at protecting both businesses and patrons. He explained that the use of face coverings by criminals has complicated investigations, even with surveillance systems in place. Jewelers have widely welcomed this decision, seeing it as a vital step towards mitigating the risks associated with their trade. However, the implementation of this policy has led to varied reactions from the public, with concerns raised by some about its impact on religious practices and personal choices. The association is committed to ensuring the policy’s effective enforcement across Chhattisgarh, anticipating a reduction in criminal incidents and an overall improvement in store security.