New Delhi, May 26,2026: Indian authorities have introduced fresh restrictions ahead of Eid al-Adha, including a ban on the slaughter of cows, calves and camels, drawing renewed attention to concerns over religious freedoms and limitations on Muslim religious practices in several states.
As Muslims across India prepare to observe Eid-ul-Adha, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to strictly enforce regulations governing religious observances.
According to Indian media reports, the Uttar Pradesh government has prohibited animal sacrifice at public places and barred road blockades for Eid prayers.
Chairing a high-level law and order meeting via video conference, Yogi Adityanath instructed district administrations to allow animal sacrifice only at designated locations and stressed that no “new traditions” should be introduced during the festival.
He also ordered that Eid prayers (namaz) be performed only at traditional sites and under no circumstances should permission be granted for prayers on roads.
The state government has directed authorities to closely monitor slaughter activities, enforce a ban on open meat sales, and take action against illegal slaughterhouses.
Officials have also been instructed to conduct flag marches and increase police patrols around religious sites during the Eid period to maintain law and order.
In New Delhi, minister Kapil Mishra warned of strict action against what authorities described as illegal animal transportation, unauthorised slaughter, and animal cruelty ahead of the festival.
He reiterated that animal sacrifice would only be permitted at officially designated and authorised locations, citing public hygiene and legal compliance requirements.
Eid al-Adha is observed by Muslims worldwide with the ritual sacrifice of livestock such as goats, sheep, cows, and camels, in remembrance of the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah.
The festival coincides with the annual pilgrimage of Hajj in Saudi Arabia and is marked by congregational prayers, family gatherings, and charitable distribution of meat to relatives, friends, and the underprivileged.
