Farangi Mahali urges use of only legally permitted animals for Bakrid sacrifice

Lucknow: Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahali, chairman of the Islamic Centre of India and Imam of Lucknow’s Eidgah, has appealed to Muslims to ensure that only legally permitted animals are sacrificed during Eid-ul-Zuha (Bakrid).Issuing an advisory on behalf of the Islamic Centre of India, the cleric stressed that the sacrifice of cows is prohibited and warned that any violation would invite legal action. He urged people to perform qurbani strictly within the framework of the law and maintain communal harmony.The advisory stated that Bakrid sacrifices would be performed over three days: May 28, 29 and 30. The maulana specified that goats, sheep, buffaloes and camels are permitted for sacrifice, and no other animal should be used in violation of legal restrictions.He also appealed to people not to carry out sacrifices on roadsides, streets or public places, and asked that cleanliness and hygiene be maintained at all slaughter sites. Animal waste should be disposed of only at designated municipal dumping points, he said.Appealing further against public display, the Imam requested people not to photograph or film sacrificial rituals and not to upload such content on social media. He said the spirit of Eid ul Adha lies in devotion, discipline and respect for society’s sensitivities.The Islamic Centre also advised that blood from sacrificed animals should not be allowed to flow into drains, describing it as both religiously inappropriate and harmful to public health. Instead, remains should be buried properly so they can decompose naturally.Calling Zilhijjah one of the holiest months in Islam, Maulana Khalid Rasheed said sacrifice is an important act of worship for those who can afford it but added that religious observance must go hand in hand with responsibility and adherence to the law.