West Bengal witnessed fresh political tensions after MLA and Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) founder Humayun Kabir lashed out at the BJP-led government’s newly-introduced guidelines regulating animal slaughter ahead of Eid. Kabir threw an open challenge to the restrictions and declared that ‘Qurbani’ (ritual animal sacrifice) during Eid, would continue at ‘any cost’.

He issued a sharp warning to West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari, saying, “Do not play with fire,” asserting that the Muslim community would not compromise on religious practices.

‘Muslims will not compromise on Qurbani’

Addressing the issue publicly, Kabir accused authorities of interfering in religious matters and claimed that restrictions imposed on Eid practices were unacceptable. He remarked, “We respect the law. But Qurabi would happen. Whatever is written in the Quran will happen. I want to tell CM Suvendu Adhikari directly not to play with fire. It may prove dangerous for you. The Muslim community will not compromise on Qurbani."

He further objected to restrictions on offering prayers on public roads and demanded that adequate arrangements be ensured for Eid congregations. He said, “Eid prayers are held on Red Road. If that is not allowed in future, there will be protests. Adequate space should be provided for offering prayers. If arrangements are not made, then pujas on roads should not be allowed either.”

His remarks have drawn strong reactions across political fraternity, with critics accusing him of making provocative statements, while supporters argued that religious freedoms must be protected.

BJP emphasises law should be followed

BJP state president Samik Bhattacharya reacted to Kabir’s remarks, maintaining that the issue was strictly about enforcing the law and preventing illegal activities. He asserted, “Illegal slaughterhouses will not be allowed to operate,” reiterating the BJP’s stance on the issue.

Govt notification under spotlight

The controversy stems from a notification issued by the West Bengal government on May 13, which rolled out stricter regulatory measures concerning animal slaughter.

As per the government-issued guidelines, slaughter without a ‘valid certificate’ issued by the authorised authorities has been prohibited. The notification also warned of penal action against violators and clarified that animal slaughter in open public places would be strictly prohibited.