Mumbai: 550 police personnel deployed, social media monitored to ensure peaceful Bakrid celebrations
Mumbai, May 28
As Bakrid celebrations continued across the city, police authorities said extensive security arrangements have been put in place to ensure peace and law and order.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Mira Road) Rahul Chavan said that around 550 police personnel have been deployed across Mumbai, with continuous patrolling underway in sensitive areas.
"Police have been deployed in sensitive areas. Currently, the festival of Bakrid is being celebrated in a peaceful atmosphere. Social media is also being monitored," DCP Chavan told ANI.
Officials said the deployment is aimed at maintaining communal harmony and ensuring that the festival passes off peacefully across the region.
BJP leader Kirit Somaiya alleged that illegal animal slaughter for Bakri Eid was taking place at several locations in Mumbai, including Mankhurd, Deonar, and Govandi, and urged the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Mumbai Police to take action.
In a post on X, Somaiya claimed that qurbani was being carried out in housing societies and residential complexes despite designated slaughter locations and licensed markets being available nearby.
"Dozen's places illegal Kurbani Katal at Mankhurd, Deonar, Govandi.... in Housing Societies/Complexes. Bakri Eid Kurbani inspite of Markets/Shops Kurbani Places (designated places) available nearby areas. BMC Police must act," Somaiya posted.
Meanwhile, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation cancelled permission earlier granted for Bakri Eid qurbani at the premises of Azad Nagar D-3 building, Satellite Garden Phase-2, on Aarey Bhaskar Road in Goregaon (East).
Eid Al-Adha or Bakra Eid, which is being observed on May 28 this year, is a significant Islamic festival also referred to as the 'festival of sacrifice'. It is observed on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and marks the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.
The date of the festival changes every year as it follows the lunar calendar, which is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar. This results in Eid moving earlier each year in the Western calendar cycle.
The festival is widely regarded as a time of joy, reflection and compassion, where people strengthen social bonds, forgive past grievances and engage in acts of charity and goodwill. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Abraham to sacrifice in obedience to God, symbolising faith and devotion.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Kirit Somaiya's allegations need to be investigated properly. If illegal animal slaughter is happening in housing societies, then strict action should be taken. But at the same time, we shouldn't let such incidents create unnecessary tension. There are designated places for a reason, and everyone should follow the rules. Communal harmony is more important than anything else in a city like Mumbai.
I appreciate the police efforts to ensure peace. India's diversity is its strength, and festivals like Bakrid show how different communities can coexist respectfully. Social media monitoring is essential these days to prevent fake news from spreading. Let's hope everything goes smoothly. 🤝
The BMC cancelling permission for qurbani in housing complexes is the right move. We need to balance religious freedom with municipal laws and hygiene standards. But it's good that designated places are available. This is how a modern city should handle such things - with proper planning, not confrontation. Eid Mubarak to everyone celebrating! 🌙
Honestly, I think the police deployment is a bit excessive for a religious festival. But given the tensions in the country, maybe it's necessary. I just hope the monitoring doesn't turn into harassment of innocent people. The festival should be about joy and sacrifice, not suspicion and fear. Let's trust each other a little more as fellow citizens.
Very sensible approach from the authorities. In a city like Mumbai where millions live together, such arrangements are necessary. The focus on communal harmony is commendable. I just wish people would stop politicizing every festival. Whether it's Diwali or Eid, let's celebrate together without creating divides. ❤️
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.