BIJNOR, UTTAR PRADESH – Authorities in Uttar Pradesh’s Bijnor district have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against approximately 40 individuals for allegedly offering prayers on a public road during the observance of Eid-ul-Adha, commonly known as Bakrid, on May 28, 2026. The action follows a government directive prohibiting the occupation of public thoroughfares for religious activities.
According to the FIR filed at the Chandpur police station, the incident occurred in the Jaleel Pur village area. A police team on patrol observed a group of 30 to 40 people assembling and offering prayers on the roadside, extending from the Eidgah gate onto the adjacent road. The police reportedly informed the individuals that their gathering violated orders issued by the District Magistrate under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which prohibits unlawful assemblies and the disruption of public order. Despite these warnings, the group proceeded with their prayers, leading to the registration of the case.
The FIR names 15 individuals, including Samun, Navi Badshah, Aijaz, Salim, Musharraf, Mohd. Ahmad, Aleem Chaudhary, Haji Anwar, Badruddin, Bikaluddin, Tameezuddin, Mumtaz, Chhammam, Irfan, and one person identified only as “R.B.” An additional 20 to 25 unidentified persons are also implicated. All accused have been charged under Section 223 of the BNS, which pertains to disobedience to orders duly promulgated by a public servant.
The Uttar Pradesh government, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, had previously issued directives emphasizing that roads should not be blocked for prayers under any circumstances. During a high-level review meeting, the Chief Minister had instructed district administrations and police forces to ensure that all festival activities are confined to designated locations and that public convenience and law and order are not disrupted. The Chief Minister had also advised that if space is limited, devotees should offer prayers in shifts rather than blocking public roads.
Prior to the festival, Chief Minister Adityanath had publicly stated that no prayers would be permitted on public roads and had called for adherence to established norms and legal frameworks. The state government has consistently maintained a strict stance against the occupation of public spaces for religious gatherings, citing the need to ensure smooth traffic and public movement.
While the police stated that attempts were made to dissuade the devotees from praying on the road, sources indicated that the Eidgah was overcrowded, leading to worshippers taking to the roadside to offer prayers. A video of the incident circulated widely on social media, prompting the police to take cognizance of the matter.
Opposition parties have criticized the Uttar Pradesh government’s approach, alleging selective implementation of rules against Muslims while permitting similar activities during Hindu festivals. Asaduddin Owaisi, chief of the All India Majlis Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), has argued for the equal application of rules across all religions, citing Article 25 of the Constitution.
This incident follows previous instances in Uttar Pradesh where authorities have taken action against individuals for offering prayers on public roads. The government’s stance aims to maintain public order and prevent any disruption to traffic and daily life during festivals.
The investigation into the case is being conducted by Sub-Inspector Bablu Singh, with further proceedings to follow.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
