Summary Restrictions and warnings ahead of Eidul Azha in India have triggered criticism and renewed debate over minority rights and the country’s secular identity.
NEW DELHI (Dunya News) - Actions taken by the Indian government ahead of Eidul Azha have raised fresh questions over the country’s claims of secularism, following restrictions and warnings related to Muslim religious practices in several states.
According to The Times of India, the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued warnings ahead of Eidul Azha regarding the sacrifice of cows, calves, and camels.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also warned people against violations related to Eid sacrifices and Eid prayers before the religious festival.
Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami cautioned against religious activities on roads ahead of Eidul Azha.
In another development, the Calcutta High Court issued a ruling stating that cow sacrifice is neither an essential part of Eidul Azha nor a mandatory religious obligation in Islam.
Following restrictions on sacrificial animals imposed by the BJP government in West Bengal, Hindu traders also staged protests against the measures.
According to international analysts, the extremist policies and ideology associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party have intensified tensions involving minorities and contributed to growing internal divisions within the country.
