North Indian states tighten Bakrid rules on animal sacrifice and prayers

Several North Indian states have announced stricter regulations on animal sacrifice and public prayers ahead of Bakrid, the festival of Eid al-Adha observed by Muslims, prompting political debate and legal scrutiny over religious practices and animal protection laws. The moves, announced by state governments in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal, cite law enforcement, animal welfare, and public order concerns.

In Delhi, the BJP led government issued a strict advisory banning the sacrifice of cows, calves, camels, and other prohibited animals in the national capital. Minister Kapil Mishra warned that criminal cases would be registered against violators. The advisory also prohibits animal sacrifice in public places such as roads, streets, and open areas, permitting the practice only at authorized locations approved under existing laws. Mishra also directed intensified monitoring of illegal animal transportation and waste disposal, emphasizing enforcement under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and related regulations. Cow slaughter has long been prohibited in Delhi under the Delhi Agricultural Cattle Preservation Act.

In Uttar Pradesh, authorities ordered...