The Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board issued an appeal urging members of the Muslim community to maintain communal harmony and avoid offering animal sacrifices in open or public places during Eid al-Azha celebrations on Thursday.
Waqf Board Chairman Salim Raj issued a statement on Monday saying that Eid al-Adha prayers will be held at mosques and holidays in the state between 6 a.m. and 11 a.m. according to local schedules.
The council said that Islamic teachings promote brotherhood, respect for all religions and peaceful coexistence. This holiday, which is celebrated in memory of the sacrifice of Prophet Abraham and Prophet Ishmael, is one of the most important occasions in Islam.
The statement referred to videos or pictures of sacrifices being circulated on social media, and said that such actions often hurt the feelings of other communities and disturb the social atmosphere, so they should be avoided.
The Waqf Board also advised people not to sacrifice forbidden animals, and urged worshipers not to upload photos or videos of the sacrifice on social media platforms.
The bulletin also asked people to ensure proper disposal and hygiene after performing the ritual, warning against allowing blood or residue to flow into drains or public places.
People have also been advised not to perform prayers on roads and instead use designated places or Eidgah in case of increased gatherings, following arrangements made in previous years.
“Respect the faith and feelings of every community and celebrate Eid al-Adha while maintaining sectarian harmony and brotherhood,” Raj said in the statement.
