Chandra Shekhar Aazad, MP from the Aazad Samaj Party-Kanshi Ram, has strongly criticized the Meerut police for its recent warning against offering Eid prayers on roads. He alleged that police officers in Uttar Pradesh are competing to make inflammatory statements targeting Muslims to gain publicity.
“In UP, there is a competition among police officers to see who can make the most objectionable statements against Muslims for publicity. The police are not the judiciary; they have no authority to cancel passports… At this rate, Muslims will soon need permission even to breathe,” Aazad stated, calling on both the state and central governments to take action.
The controversy arose after Meerut police warned that offering Eid namaz on roads could invite legal action, citing concerns over law and order.
BJP leader and actor Ravi Kishan also weighed in, questioning the practice of offering prayers in public spaces. “Hindus and Muslims must celebrate their festivals without inconveniencing the public. Namaz is accepted in mosques, so who introduced this practice of praying on the streets?” he remarked in an interview with ANI.
The issue gained further traction after Sambhal Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra stated that Eid prayers should not be conducted on the streets. During a peace committee meeting addressing upcoming festivals such as Navaratri, Eid, and Mahanavami, officials decided against allowing namaz on public roads.
SDM Mishra also mentioned restrictions on the use of microphones and loudspeakers, stating that permission for prayers on terraces near mosques would be granted only after proper verification.
Additionally, Circle Officer Anuj Chaudhary emphasized maintaining harmony. “If you want to serve Eid’s sevaiyan, you will have to eat Gujia too,” he said, urging communities to celebrate their festivals without disrupting peace.
The debate over religious practices in public spaces continues to be a contentious issue in Uttar Pradesh, sparking discussions on freedom of religion and public order.
