India, May 25 -- Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed that animal sacrifice during Bakrid will not be permitted at public places across the state, and has instructed officials to ensure strict compliance with the guidelines ahead of the festival.

According to the directive, sacrifices will only be allowed at pre-designated and authorised locations, and no new sites will be permitted. The Chief Minister also reiterated that the sacrifice of prohibited animals remains strictly banned.

He further directed that prayers (namaz) must be offered only at traditional and designated venues, and under no circumstances should public roads be blocked for religious gatherings.

The state government has also instructed officials t...