Ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, Maulana Arshad Madani has appealed to Indian Muslims to perform the religious ritual of sacrifice with caution, discipline, and full compliance with government rules.
In his Eid-ul-Adha message, the president of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind said that sacrifice, or qurbani, is an essential religious duty in Islam and there is no substitute for it.
“There is no alternative to sacrifice in Islam. It is a religious duty that every financially capable Muslim is required to perform,” Madani said. He added that Muslims on whom qurbani is obligatory should fulfil the responsibility “under all circumstances.”
At the same time, Madani urged Muslims to remain careful in view of the current situation and avoid actions that could lead to tensions.
He specifically advised people not to share pictures or videos of sacrificial animals on social media platforms. “Considering the present circumstances, Muslims themselves should act carefully,” he said, adding that caution and responsibility are necessary.
Follow Government Rules, Avoid Banned Animals: Madani
Madani also called upon Muslims to fully follow government orders while performing qurbani and avoid sacrificing prohibited animals.
He said Islamic teachings permit the sacrifice of alternative animals, and Muslims should consider such options to prevent any dispute or disturbance.
“Restricted animals should not be sacrificed. Since religion permits the sacrifice of other animals, this should be considered sufficient to avoid unrest,” he said.
The cleric further suggested that if objections arise even over permitted sacrifices in certain places, local elders and influential community members should coordinate with the administration to carry out the ritual peacefully.
“If, God forbid, it becomes impossible to fulfil this religious duty in one place, sacrifice should be performed in the nearest area where there is no problem,” he said.
However, Madani stressed that in areas where qurbani has traditionally taken place but is currently facing resistance, at least goat sacrifice should continue, and proper information should be submitted to local administrative offices to avoid future complications.
Appeal for Cleanliness and Peace During Eid
Madani also urged Muslims to maintain cleanliness during Eid-ul-Adha and ensure that animal remains are disposed of properly.
He appealed to people not to throw remains on roads, streets, or drains. Instead, he said they should be buried in a proper manner so that foul smell does not spread and inconvenience others.
“Every possible effort should be made so that our actions do not cause discomfort to anyone,” he said.
The Jamiat chief also advised Muslims to remain patient and peaceful if any communal disturbance occurs and to report such incidents to the nearest police station instead of reacting emotionally.
“Any attempt to create disturbance by communal elements should be handled with restraint and patience, and complaints should be lodged with local police,” Madani added.
