Prayers held in designated eidgahs across capital and Raigarh; restrictions imposed on public sacrifices and DJ usage

Chhattisgarh marked Eid ul-Adha, one of Islam's most significant observances, with prayers reverberating through the state's principal eidgahs this morning. In Raipur's main eidgah and Raigarh's Qadmi eidgah, thousands of worshippers gathered to offer prayers, embracing one another with traditional greetings as celebrations unfolded under tight regulatory oversight.

The state's waqf board has rolled out comprehensive guidelines aimed at maintaining order, communal harmony, and sanitation standards throughout the festival period. The directives represent a marked shift in how celebrations are conducted, with particular emphasis on shifting prayers to designated time slots and enforcing restrictions on public spaces.

Strict curbs on public sacrifices

Among the most significant measures is the complete prohibition on animal sacrifices in open spaces, streets, fields, and public areas. The waqf board has made it explicit that sacrificial rituals—a core aspect of the festival—are permissible only within authorized slaughterhouses or private premises.

Dr. Saleem Raj, chairperson of the Chhattisgarh Waqf Board, explained the rationale during a recent conversation: "These orders are designed to maintain sanitation and respect the sentiments of all communities." The board is empowered to impose fines up to ₹50,000 on those found violating these directives.

According to officials, prayer shifts have been in place since last year. Those who breach these rules face penalties of up to ₹50,000. The board stated that compliance has been substantially reflected across the state.

Municipal teams have been tasked with ensuring sanitation arrangements, with coordinated enforcement by police and civic authorities to monitor adherence to noise and public health standards.

DJ bans and sound restrictions tightened

The board has also imposed strict caps on decibel levels during religious celebrations. Events featuring DJ systems or amplified sound that exceed prescribed noise limits will face action, with joint teams from police and municipal corporations maintaining round-the-clock surveillance. The move signals the state's intent to prevent disturbances while allowing legitimate celebration.

Premium goat market booming in Raigarh

While regulatory measures tightened across urban centers, Raigarh witnessed an unprecedented surge in festive commerce. Buyers from the district have purchased animals ranging from ₹1 to ₹1.5 lakh, with significant volumes also acquired in the ₹20,000–₹30,000 bracket, according to local traders and community members.

The influx reflects heightened demand for premium breeding stock. Breeders from Punjab, Odisha, and adjoining districts have answered the call, supplying Beetal-breed goats—prized for their size and meat quality—alongside local varieties. The trend suggests increasing affluence and willingness to invest in superior livestock for the occasion.

Shanu Khan, a resident of Bipara, shared his approach: "Six months ago, I sourced an expensive Beetal-breed animal from Punjab. The animals are fed green vegetables, gram, and nutritious fodder to keep them in prime condition." Such forward planning underscores the festival's significance as both religious observance and economic event.

Ground reality vs. enforcement challenges

According to officials, the current guidelines are being followed with cent-per-cent compliance across Chhattisgarh. "No prayers are being offered on streets," Dr. Raj confirmed. However, maintaining sustained vigilance in sprawling urban and semi-urban areas remains a practical challenge, with enforcement teams concentrating on major eidgahs and high-visibility zones.

The state's approach reflects an attempt to balance religious freedom with civic order. While celebrations proceed, the regulatory framework ensures that festivities do not encroach upon public health, environmental standards, or the sensibilities of other communities—a delicate equilibrium that authorities are actively monitoring.

What happens next

As Eid celebrations continue through the day, the waqf board and civic authorities are expected to maintain surveillance through evening hours. The outcomes of today's observance will likely inform future festival management protocols, especially as Chhattisgarh continues to navigate the intersection of religious practice and modern governance.

Waqf Board removes Arif Ali Farooqui from post following complaints of obscene late-night calls and pressure for friendship and halala

Raipur Misconduct Case

The Waqf Board has dismissed the city Qazi of Raipur, Arif Ali Farooqui, from his position after serious allegations of misconduct surfaced. Officials acted swiftly following complaints that he made obscene phone calls to women at odd hours, including around 1 am, and pressured them for friendship.

According to reports, Farooqui, associated with the Madrasa Islahul Muslemin Yatimkhana in Baijnathpara, allegedly told one woman he would facilitate her divorce and then insisted on her involvement in halala. A woman complainant informed her family members, who then lodged a formal complaint with the Waqf Board.

Late-Night Calls Spark Outrage

The allegations point to a pattern of behaviour that shocked the local community. Sources indicated that Farooqui would call women late at night, engage in lewd conversations, and exert pressure for personal friendship. The matter came to light when the affected woman shared details with her relatives, leading to the complaint.

Ulema and community leaders described the actions as a serious breach of the dignity of the responsible post. The incident triggered widespread anger among members of the society, who viewed it as tarnishing the image of religious authority.

Emergency Meeting Leads to Dismissal

On March 31, 2026, prominent ulema and imams of Raipur convened an emergency meeting to discuss the complaint. Key figures including Qari Imran, Abdul Razzaq, Zaheer Rahbar, Abad Ali, and Ashraf Ali attended the gathering.

After detailed deliberations on the facts presented, the meeting passed a unanimous resolution. The decision resulted in the immediate removal of Arif Ali Farooqui from the position of city Qazi. Community leaders emphasised that such conduct undermines the sanctity of religious positions and erodes public trust.

Previous Allegations Surface

This is not the first time Farooqui has faced controversy. In October 2023, he was accused of assaulting a minor boy at the same madrasa over a missing headphone. The boy, a resident from Ramanujganj, reportedly suffered beating in the incident. Though the matter created a stir at the time, no strong action was taken then, according to local reports.

The recurrence of issues has now prompted stronger measures from the Waqf Board and community elders.

Community Reaction and Concerns

Ulema described the episode as damaging to the prestige of the Qazi's office. Several community members expressed outrage, stating that individuals in such positions must uphold high moral standards. The case has sparked discussions on accountability within religious institutions.

Local sources indicated growing demands for further police investigation into the complaints. Many view the dismissal as a necessary first step to restore confidence in community leadership.

Impact on Local Institutions

The development has drawn attention to oversight mechanisms in Waqf Board-managed institutions. It highlights the need for stricter protocols regarding the conduct of religious functionaries who interact with the public, especially vulnerable groups.

Women in the community have voiced concerns over personal safety and privacy, particularly regarding unsolicited late-night communications. The episode has also raised questions about the selection and monitoring processes for sensitive religious roles.

What Lies Ahead

With Farooqui's removal, the Waqf Board is expected to initiate the process for appointing a new city Qazi. Meanwhile, calls for a formal police probe into the allegations continue to gain momentum. Community leaders have urged maintaining calm while ensuring justice.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical conduct in positions of religious and social responsibility. Authorities are likely to monitor the situation closely to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

As per latest updates, no official comment from Farooqui was immediately available. The Waqf Board has confirmed the dismissal through its internal processes.

This case has emerged as a significant local development, reflecting ongoing efforts to address grievances within minority institutions in Chhattisgarh.