NEW DELHI: Indian authorities have imposed fresh restrictions ahead of Eid ul Adha, including bans on the slaughter of cows, calves and camels in several regions, prompting renewed debate over religious freedom and restrictions on Muslim religious practices.
According to Indian media reports, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to strictly enforce measures related to Eid observances during a high-level law and order meeting held via video conference.
The Uttar Pradesh government ordered that animal sacrifice be permitted only at pre-designated sites and instructed authorities not to allow any “new traditions” during the festival.
Adityanath also directed that Eid prayers be offered only at traditional locations and said no permission would be granted for offering namaz on roads under any circumstances.
Authorities were further instructed to intensify monitoring of slaughter activities, enforce a ban on open meat sales and take action against illegal slaughterhouses.
Officials were also ordered to conduct flag marches and increase security patrols around religious sites during the Eid holidays.
Meanwhile, in Delhi, minister Kapil Mishra warned of strict action against illegal animal transportation, unauthorised slaughter and what authorities described as animal cruelty ahead of Eid ul Adha.
During a review meeting with officials, Mishra directed that animal sacrifice should only take place at authorised and designated locations, citing public hygiene and legal compliance.
Muslims around the world observe Eid ul Adha by sacrificing animals including goats, cows, camels and sheep, coinciding with the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
The festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command before the sacrifice was divinely replaced with a ram.
Eid ul Adha is marked by congregational prayers, family gatherings and charitable acts, including the distribution of sacrificial meat among relatives, friends and underprivileged communities.