In a telling snapshot of the state's contradictions, the same man who was honoured by the Chief Minister for his unique chaat is now begging for survival in Varanasi. Raju Sharma, famously known for his tomato chaat and is recognised by state dignitaries including the CM, PM, and even the President, has been left with no option but to seek alms after police removed his food cart during an anti-encroachment drive.
Raju said his livelihood was destroyed when police, acting on alleged instructions from the commissioner, forcefully removed his handcart outside Townhall Gate, warning him of jail if he returned. "They said I’ll be sent to jail for six months. I have no other income. Either I beg or I go to jail," Raju said while sitting with his family, holding placards and the CM’s photo.
Once a pride of the city's street food culture, his tomato chaat was even served at official events in Delhi. CM Yogi had personally honoured him with ₹21,000 as part of a recognition programme for street vendors.
Yet despite this, the state’s actions have left Raju without income or dignity.
Public sentiment has quickly turned sour, with many questioning how a government that claims to empower self-employed citizens now treats them with such disregard, enforcing rules without giving a way out. Raju’s case has become emblematic of the growing disconnect between political optics and ground realities in BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh.
