Jewellers in Varanasi have banned the sale of ornaments to customers wearing veils, burqas, masks, or helmets, citing security concerns due to rising theft and fraud incidents. The Uttar Pradesh Jewellers Association stated the measure is for their safety, requiring customers to uncover their faces for identification. While the association claims it's not religiously motivated and Muslim customers can remove veils before entry, some jewellers argue this policy is insulting and could deter customers. Similar bans have been implemented in other Bihar and UP districts.