Amidst ongoing raging controversy regarding meat and beef ban in India, the temple town of Ayodhya has a different example of harmony and respect for religious customs. In Ayodhya, there is a complete ban on sale of meat throughout the year except on the three days of Eid when Muslims can freely perform qurbani and even the sants don't object to it, reports a leading daily.
According to the Muslim citizens, this practice has been prevalent for generations and they have never faced any problem. Even during the days of unrest post the Babri Masjid demolition, the tradition continued unabated. In fact, the entire Ayodhya story is symbolic of how people of different faith can live together in peace respecting each other's religion and customs.
Ayodhya, being considered an extremely holy town by crores of Hindus, doesn't even have a non-vegetarian restaurant. People who want to have non-vegetarian food eat it indoors. Weddings which serve non-vegetarian are normally held in the neighbouring Faizabad. According to local corporator Hazi Asad Ansari, Muslims have abided by these rules for generation. Similarly the Hindu religious leaders take a lenient view regarding slaughtering during qurbani keeping in mind its religious significance. The reports quote prominent sants and purohits who give their vote of confidence and support to the existing customs.
According to police, the temple city is known for its inclusive tradition, yet they remain specially cautious during Eid to avoid untoward incidents. But outside of Ayodhya, there are places like Sant Kabir Nagar in Uttar Pradesh where Muslims face difficulty in organising qurbani during Eid.
