Ahead of Eid, Assam Eid Committees Call for Cow Slaughter-Free Celebrations

Days ahead of Eid al-Adha, several Eid committees across Assam have appealed to people to refrain from cow slaughter and maintain communal harmony during the festival. The appeal comes in response to a call made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who urged citizens to take a “big resolve” in the interest of peace and social unity. Assam, which has a Muslim population of around 35 per cent, has witnessed coordinated efforts from multiple Eidgah committees to promote responsible celebrations.In their statements, the committees reminded people that cow slaughter is prohibited under the Assam Cattle Preservation Act and warned that violations could invite strict legal action, including imprisonment and financial penalties. They also advised

that animal sacrifices should be carried out only in designated areas while maintaining hygiene and public decorum.Additionally, the committees urged citizens not to share photographs or videos of animal sacrifices on social media, noting that such content could hurt sentiments and disturb communal harmony.Describing Eid al-Adha as a festival symbolising sacrifice, compassion and unity, the committees called upon all sections of society to uphold peace, brotherhood and mutual respect. They also appealed to the public to cooperate with the administration and law enforcement agencies to ensure smooth and peaceful celebrations.Taking to social media platform X, Chief Minister Sarma highlighted that the Dhubri Town Eidgah Committee had appealed to people to avoid cow slaughter while respecting the sentiments of Hindus and adhering to the law.“Following the call by various committees, the Dhubri Town Eidgah Committee has also urged people to refrain from cow slaughter to honour the sentiments of Hindus and follow the law of the land,” he posted, adding, “I call upon all Eid committees to come forward and make this Eid cow slaughter-free.”Similarly, the Hojai Town Eidgah Kabrastan Committee issued a similar appeal, stressing the importance of religious sensitivity and compliance with government regulations. The committee stated that Islam does not make cow sacrifice compulsory and encouraged devotees to focus on the broader spiritual message of the festival.Echoing this sentiment, the president of the Dhubri Town Eidgah Committee said in a statement, “We have decided not to slaughter cows during Eid and have appealed to Muslim brothers not to do so. Sacrifice is not just about animals; it is about giving up inner negativity. Our religious practices should not hurt other communities.” The coordinated appeals are being seen as a step towards fostering communal harmony and ensuring peaceful observance of the festival across the state.