Two Muslim men were detained by police in Uttar Pradesh’s Fatehpur after a WhatsApp status related to Eid al-Adha (Bakrid) allegedly sparked controversy for featuring an image of a cow alongside a sacrificial appeal.
The incident took place in the Laloli police station area, where authorities said swift action was taken after complaints claimed the social media post could disturb communal harmony ahead of Bakrid.
According to police, the two men, identified as Gufran and Zainul Abideen, had allegedly uploaded a WhatsApp status inviting people to participate in sacrificial arrangements for Bakrid. The poster reportedly appealed to people to contribute “Rs 3,200 for sacrifice” and included images associated with animal sacrifice, including a cow.
Complaint filed after WhatsApp status goes viral
The matter reportedly escalated after a local Hindutva leader, identified as Pradeep Kumar, filed a complaint against members linked to a local mosque committee over the poster. Police later detained Gufran and Zainul Abideen, alleging that both had shared the poster as their WhatsApp status.
Officials said concerns were raised that the post could create communal tension in the sensitive period leading up to Eid al-Adha.
A police officer associated with the case said authorities acted immediately to prevent any possible escalation. Police also seized the mobile phones of both accused for further investigation.
“People should avoid sharing provocative or sensitive material on social media, especially during festivals. Maintaining peace and harmony is everyone’s responsibility,” a police official said.
Authorities stated that the phones are being examined to determine the intent behind the post and whether similar material had been circulated elsewhere.
Muslim organisations repeatedly urge compliance with local laws
The incident comes at a time when several Muslim scholars and religious organisations have been urging people to strictly follow state laws regarding sacrifice during Bakrid, especially in states where cow slaughter is prohibited.
Religious bodies regularly issue advisories before Eid al-Adha asking Muslims to avoid public display of sacrifices, refrain from uploading sensitive videos or images online, and ensure that religious practices are carried out only at legally permitted locations.
An Islamic scholar in Uttar Pradesh said, “Muslim organisations clearly tell people every year to obey the law of the land and avoid anything that can create communal tension.”
Another local community member said many Muslims themselves discourage posting sacrificial images online, arguing that such content is often used to provoke reactions or spread hate.
“Most ordinary Muslims want Bakrid to pass peacefully. Social media mistakes by individuals should not be used to target the whole community,” he said.
