LUCKNOW : Eid al-Adha prayers should be offered in Eidgahs, mosques or at homes and no one would be allowed to offer prayers on roads and in public places,” the guidelines issued by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said.

During a high-level meeting conducted via video conference from his official residence, Adityanath addressed senior police officers from across the state, emphasising the need for strict enforcement of the rules.

“Don’t offer qurbani on roads, footpaths and pathways or of any prohibited animal. Ensure the highest level of cleanliness and hygiene. Ensure that you bury the blood and entrails of the animal after qurbani or deliver it at the designated spot of garbage collection,” a senior official said citing the guidelines issued on Thursday evening.

The guidelines emphasise that designated places for sacrifice must be identified in advance, ensuring that the act does not take place at disputed or sensitive sites. Additionally, strict measures have been outlined to prevent the sacrifice of animals prohibited by law.

Security measures are being intensified with a focus on preventing any incidents that could potentially disturb religious sentiments. The police and administration have been instructed to remain vigilant throughout the festive month, beginning with Ganga Dussehra on June 16 followed by Eid al-Adha on June 17, and subsequently the Kanwar Yatra starting on July 22.

“Facilities for devotees should be adequately prepared,” the chief minister affirmed during a review of festival arrangements.

The chief minister underscored the importance of respecting religious practices while ensuring compliance with the law.

“A cleanliness campaign will run statewide from June 15 to 22, focusing on cleaning and decorating the ghats of Ganga River ahead of Ganga Dussehra,” the government order specified. Security measures will include the deployment of divers, flood units of the Territorial Armed Force, NDRF, and SDRF to ensure public safety.

The chief minister also emphasised the need to avoid unnecessary power cuts during this sensitive period, urging coordinated efforts from all departments to maintain peace and order. ( With Agencies Inputs )