Bakri Eid: Waris Pathan Meets Chief Minister Fadnavis; Discusses Community Concerns and Praises Government's Decision
Amid heightened social and religious sensitivity ahead of Bakri Eid, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) national spokesperson and former MLA Waris Pathan met with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today. During the meeting, Pathan submitted a memorandum highlighting key concerns of the Muslim community and expressed appreciation for the state government’s prompt actions.
The discussions focused on a range of pressing issues including law and order, cleanliness around mosque premises, management of the Deonar Goat Market, and public misconceptions regarding the use of loudspeakers during the festival. Pathan also raised objections to the proposal by certain organizations seeking a ban on goat sales between June 3 and June 8 — the days leading up to Bakri Eid.
In response, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured Pathan that the government had already lifted the proposed ban, taking a positive and inclusive stance. “India is a secular nation where every religion has the right to celebrate its festivals. The government is committed to supporting all communities in this democratic framework,” said Fadnavis. He emphasized that the Muslim community would be able to observe Bakri Eid peacefully and without restrictions.
When asked about the memorandum submitted by lawyers' associations to the Mumbai DIG against Jaspreet Yashwant Verma, Pathan stated, “I am a lawyer myself and I fully support any decision that is taken within the boundaries of the law. No one is above the law.”
Commenting on Rahul Gandhi's criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pathan chose a neutral and nationalistic tone. “I will not speak in favor of any particular party. When the country is facing a crisis, unity among all political parties is crucial. During incidents like Pahalgam, Pulwama, or the 26/11 attacks, the nation stood united, and our adversaries were intimidated. That same united front is needed now more than ever,” he said. The meeting concluded on a positive note, with Pathan appreciating the Chief Minister's receptiveness and the government's assurance of maintaining harmony during the upcoming festival.