Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh – As the festival of Bakrid (Eid al-Adha) approaches, tensions are on the rise after a controversial statement by Uttar Pradesh Minister Rajeshwar Singh that has sparked widespread criticism. While addressing a public gathering in Kushinagar on June 5, the minister issued a stern warning to the Muslim community regarding the sacrifice of banned animals, particularly cows and other large animals, triggering a political and communal storm.

Minister Issues Threat Over Animal Sacrifice

During his speech, Singh declared that no banned animals should be slaughtered during Bakrid, explicitly referring to cows, calves, and camels. He urged people to take a pledge on the birthday of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to protect "Mother Cow" and enforce a complete ban on the slaughter of certain animals.

In a deeply provocative tone, he added, “If Muslims sacrifice banned animals, then they too will be slaughtered, and blood will flow in Kushinagar.”

This inflammatory comment has stirred a strong reaction from civil society, opposition parties, and legal experts, who have condemned the minister’s statement as communal, inflammatory, and dangerous to public harmony.

State and Police Guidelines for Bakrid

In anticipation of Bakrid, the Uttar Pradesh Police has issued guidelines to ensure the festival is celebrated peacefully. These include:

• No animal sacrifice in public places

• Strict enforcement of bans on specific animals

• Sacrifices allowed only at approved locations

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has personally emphasized maintaining law and order during the festival. He directed officials to ensure that no illegal activities or communal tensions arise during the religious celebrations. The CM stated, “Bakrid must be celebrated peacefully. All religious sentiments should be respected, and rules regarding animal sacrifice must be followed.”

Delhi Government Also Issues Advisory

Meanwhile, the Delhi government has also stepped in with a public advisory regarding Bakrid. The administration has made it clear that:

• Illegal and banned animal sacrifice will not be allowed

• Violators will face strict legal action

• No sharing of animal sacrifice images or videos on social media

Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra emphasized, “Animal welfare and public sentiment are crucial. Sacrifice must only take place at designated spots. Public display or sacrifice on roads, streets, or colonies will invite action.”

Growing Backlash and Demand for Action

Minister Rajeshwar Singh’s remarks have been met with fierce opposition. Several political leaders and civil society organizations have demanded a public apology and legal action against the minister for allegedly inciting communal hatred.

Legal experts note that such statements may be in violation of Sections 153A and 295A of the Indian Penal Code, which deal with promoting enmity between groups and deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings.

Human rights activists warn that such rhetoric could lead to violence or unrest, especially during a sensitive religious period. Social media has also erupted with calls for Singh’s resignation, with hashtags like #ArrestRajeshwarSingh trending on X (formerly Twitter).