RAIPUR: With Eid-ul-Azha celebrations set for May 28, Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board Chairman Salim Raj has issued an appeal to Muslims across the state, urging them to avoid performing animal sacrifices in open or public places and to refrain from sharing photos or videos of the ritual on social media. The aim is to preserve communal harmony and respect the sentiments of all communities.
Appeal for Responsible Conduct During Eid-ul-Azha
In a statement released on Monday, Salim Raj outlined guidelines for the upcoming festival. He announced that Eid-ul-Azha namaz would be offered in mosques and eidgahs across the state between 6 AM and 11 AM on Thursday. Following the prayers, the ritual of qurbani (animal sacrifice) will continue until sunset on May 30. The Waqf Board chief emphasized that sacrifices should not be carried out in public spaces or open areas, and advised against sacrificing animals that are prohibited by law or religious guidelines.
Emphasis on Cleanliness and Proper Disposal
Raj urged worshippers to ensure that blood from sacrifices does not flow into drains. Instead, he recommended scientifically disposing of waste and remains by burying them in pits. Maintaining cleanliness after the ritual is essential, he added, to avoid any public health issues or environmental hazards.
Prayer Arrangements to Avoid Public Inconvenience
The Waqf Board chairman also appealed to worshippers not to offer namaz on roads, as this could cause inconvenience to others. He suggested that if gatherings become too large, prayers should be arranged in multiple shifts, following the practice adopted in previous years. This approach helps manage crowds and ensures that all participants can offer prayers without disrupting public spaces.
Call for Interfaith Respect and Brotherhood
Appealing for sensitivity towards all communities, Raj stated that Islam, the Quran, and Hadith teach respect for all faiths, brotherhood, and peaceful coexistence. He said, "People living in a society must respect the Constitution and the faith of those around them. Open sacrifice and circulation of videos on social media often hurt sentiments and disturb communal harmony." His remarks come as authorities across several states remain on high alert during Bakrid celebrations to ensure communal peace and prevent provocative social media content from triggering tensions.
This appeal reflects ongoing efforts to maintain harmony in a diverse society, where religious practices are conducted with consideration for others. The Waqf Board's guidelines aim to balance religious obligations with civic responsibility, ensuring that the festival is celebrated with joy and respect for all.
