Religious freedom in danger in India as UP CM bans cows, calves, camels sacrifice ahead of Eidul Azha

As Muslims across India prepare to observe Eidul Azha on Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directs officials to restrict offering Eid prayers on roads

NEW DEHLI: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-May 26^th, 2026) Indian authorities have introduced fresh restrictions ahead of Eidul Azha, including a ban on the slaughter of cows, calves, and camels, sparking renewed debate over religious freedoms and the regulation of Muslim religious practices in several states.

As Muslims across India prepare to observe Eidul Azha on Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to strictly enforce guidelines related to the festival, including prohibitions on animal sacrifice in public spaces and restrictions on offering Eid prayers on roads.

According to Indian media reports, the chief minister chaired a high-level law and order review meeting via video conference, where he instructed district administrations to allow animal sacrifice only at designated locations and warned against permitting any “new traditions” during the festival period.

He further ordered that Eid prayers must be held only at traditional or approved sites, stating that no permission would be granted for prayers on public roads under any circumstances.

The Uttar Pradesh government has also directed authorities to closely monitor slaughter activities, enforce restrictions on open meat sales, and take action against illegal slaughterhouses.

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Security measures, including flag marches and increased patrolling around sensitive areas and religious sites, have also been put in place ahead of the festival.

In a separate development, Delhi minister Kapil Mishra warned of strict action against what officials described as illegal animal transport, unauthorized slaughter, and animal cruelty ahead of Eidul Azha.

During a review meeting with officials, he said animal sacrifice would only be permitted at authorized and designated places, citing public health concerns and legal compliance requirements.

Eidul Azha, celebrated by Muslims worldwide, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah, a test of faith that was divinely replaced with a ram.

The festival, also known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is marked by special prayers, family gatherings, and the ritual sacrifice of livestock such as goats, sheep, cows, and camels, with meat distributed among relatives, friends, and those in need.