Aligarh Muslims appeal the CM Yogi for permission for roadside Namaz on Eid, cites fairness in religious practices
Team Clarion
ALIGARH — As the holy month of Ramzan nears its end, Muslims in Aligarh have appealed to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for permission to offer Eid prayers on public roads, questioning why other religious events like Holi and Kanwar Yatra are allowed while their worship is restricted.
A delegation from the Muslim community submitted a memorandum to the Aligarh District Magistrate on Thursday, arguing that if festivals like Holi can occupy streets and Kanwar processions are permitted, then offering a brief 10-minute Namaz on Eid should not be denied.
“When Holi can be played on roads and Kanwar processions block streets for days, why is there a problem with Muslims praying for just 10 minutes on Eid?” asked a member of the delegation. “We only want equal respect for our religious practices.”
The Uttar Pradesh government has maintained strict rules against offering Namaz on roads to prevent disruptions to traffic and public order. In Sambhal, officials have already directed that Eid prayers be held only at designated sites, not on streets.
Administrative officers across the state are holding meetings with peace committees to ensure law and order during Eid celebrations. “Our priority is to maintain harmony and prevent any tension,” said a district official, speaking on condition of anonymity.
The Aligarh delegation’s appeal has reignited the debate over religious equality in public spaces. “All we ask is for the same freedom given to others,” said another community leader. “If roads can be closed for other festivals, why not for our prayers?”
The state government has yet to respond to the request. Meanwhile, security measures are being tightened ahead of Eid to avoid any clashes or disruptions.