UP CM Yogi Adityanath calls for namaz and animal sacrifice at designated places; Balances tradition and public order

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made it clear that namaz and sacrifice of animals by the Muslims has to be performed at the place allocated so that no inconvenience is caused to the people at large. Speaking on the issue, Yogi Adityanath said, “Namaz should be performed at a designated place as per tradition. Namaz should not be performed by blocking the road. Respect faith, but do not encourage any new tradition”. He issued directives prohibiting the offering of Namaz on streets and the sacrifice of animals at unauthorized locations. He emphasized that any sacrifice should occur only at designated spots, ensuring it does not take place at disputed or sensitive sites. Additionally, he stressed the importance of not sacrificing animals forbidden under sacrificial rituals and urged officials to implement a systematic plan for waste disposal after the rituals across all districts.

Yogi Adityanath emphasised the need for heightened security measures to prevent any incidents that could potentially hurt religious sentiments. He instructed the police to maintain strict law and order during the festive season, which includes Ganga Dussehra on June 16, Bakri Eid (Eid al-Adha) on June 17, and the upcoming Kanwar Yatra starting July 22.

Namaz, the Islamic prayer observed five times a day, holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims. Traditionally, these prayers are conducted in mosques, homes, and other designated areas that provide a peaceful and sanctified environment for worship. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s advocacy for conducting Namaz in these designated spaces highlights his commitment to upholding the sanctity and solemnity of religious practices. By emphasising adherence to established venues, he aims to provide worshippers with an environment which is free from external disturbances and conducive to spiritual devotion. This approach not only respects the religious sentiments of the community but also shows the cultural importance of maintaining long standing traditions in their rightful settings.

Blocking public roads for Namaz or any other religious activity can lead to significant disruptions in everyday life. Roads are vital for transportation, emergency services, and daily commerce. When these are obstructed, it can cause delays, inconvenience, and potentially hazardous situations for the general public. Thus, ensuring that Namaz is performed in designated places will help in maintaining the smooth functioning of public infrastructure, balancing religious observance with the practical needs of a bustling society.

Preparations for these festivals, including facilities for devotees, were reviewed by the Chief Minister, who also highlighted upcoming events such as Bada Mangal on June 18 and International Yoga Day on June 21. Before Ganga Dussehra, Yogi Adityanath asked for a cleanup from June 15 to 22, focusing on cleaning and decorating the Ganga river’s banks and marking bathing areas. To increase safety, divers, the Pradeshik Armed Constabulary’s flood unit, and NDRF and SDRF teams will be on hand, aiming to reduce power cuts during the celebrations. With events like Muharram scheduled for July 17 and the Kanwar Yatra following in July, Yogi Adityanath stressed the critical need for continuous vigilance by the government and administration to ensure public safety and maintain law and order.

In India, everyone has the right to practice their religion freely under the Constitution. But it’s also important to make sure that religious activities don’t disturb others. By promoting Namaz in specific places, the Chief Minister aims to respect religious practices while keeping public order and harmony intact, which is vital for India’s diverse and inclusive society.

Encouraging people to use specific places for religious activities will help in avoiding disagreements. It ensures that worship happens in appropriate places, keeping public areas free for everyone else to use as intended. This helps create a respectful and understanding atmosphere among people from different backgrounds in our diverse society.

The objective of issuing such an order is to foster an environment of harmony and mutual respect which is essential for the peaceful coexistence of diverse communities in India.The goal is to maintain peace and harmony by allowing religious practices to continue in a way that considers everyone’s well-being and rights.