Ahead of Bakrid, the Calcutta High Court dismissed a petition challenging the West Bengal government’s restrictions on animal sacrifice during the festival. The court observed that cow sacrifice is not an essential part of Islam or Bakrid celebrations and said the state has the authority to regulate or restrict animal slaughter in public interest.

The HC also directed that animal sacrifice and slaughter cannot take place in open or public spaces and must be conducted only at designated and safe locations. At the same time, the court asked the state government to consider relaxation for the sacrifice of other animals.

The order comes after the West Bengal government introduced stricter rules, including mandatory medical checks of animals and certification from authorities before slaughter.