With Bakrid (Eid-ul-Adha) just weeks away, the Muslim community in Nanded, Maharashtra, has taken a significant decision to celebrate the festival peacefully and strictly within the framework of the law.

In a unanimous move, representatives from different sections of the community have resolved that no bovine animals — cows or bulls — will be sacrificed this year, fully respecting Maharashtra’s ban on cattle slaughter.

Maharashtra has stringent laws prohibiting the slaughter of bovines. During Bakrid, allegations of illegal cattle slaughter often surface, leading to tension and disturbing the social atmosphere. Such controversies not only violate the law but also overshadow the spirit of the festival and tarnish the community's image.

Keeping these concerns in mind, the Muslim community in Nanded has taken a proactive step to ensure that the festival is celebrated peacefully and lawfully. Along with resolving not to sacrifice any prohibited animals, the community has also launched awareness campaigns across the district and other parts of the state.

Reacting to the development, Mufti Ayub Qasmi, Imam and Khatib of Wazirabad Mosque in Nanded, said, “We will sacrifice only those animals that are permitted under Maharashtra government laws. No bovine animals such as cows or bulls will be sacrificed. The people of Nanded have taken this decision unanimously.”

He added, “To ensure that religious festivals are celebrated peacefully, we held discussions with intellectuals, clerics, lawyers, and community representatives. The decision was taken after wide-ranging consultations and has received strong public support. The Qureshi community has also clearly stated that it will not participate in the slaughter of any bovine animal.”

Welcoming the initiative, social workers and clerics in Nanded reiterated that no bovine animal would be sacrificed. “Religious leaders, political representatives, legal experts, intellectuals, and community organisations have all unanimously supported this decision,” they said.

The Qureshi community and its organisations, which traditionally play a key role in the sacrifice process, have supported the initiative. They have assured that no member of the community will engage in the slaughter of bovine animals. Several meetings were held across the city and district to build consensus, with representatives from various organisations participating and endorsing the resolution.

Why This Decision Matters

The decision taken by the Muslim community in Nanded is being seen as a landmark initiative with far-reaching social implications like boosting communal harmony, showing Muslims as law-abiding citizens, countering rumours and propaganda and reducing the burden of vigilance on the authorities.  

Mosques are announcing this decision through public address systems. Besides, meetings of the local community are also being organised in Nanded to ensure compliance with the law. Youth volunteers have also stepped forward to ensure that no illegal slaughter takes place.

“We want to celebrate our festival with happiness and responsibility. We will ensure that the law is fully respected,” said several young volunteers involved in the awareness drive.

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Overall, the decision by the Muslim community in Nanded is being viewed as a model initiative for Maharashtra. It demonstrates how religious traditions can be observed while remaining fully within the boundaries of the law and promoting social harmony.