Allahabad High Court Questions UP Government on Private Religious Gatherings

Allahabad High Court Questions UP Government on Private Religious Gatherings
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The Allahabad High Court has raised constitutional concerns while hearing a petition challenging alleged restrictions on Muslims offering namaz in private residences in Uttar Pradesh.

The court questioned whether similar limitations could apply to Hindus performing group prayers, highlighting potential infringements on the constitutional rights to freedom of religion and privacy. Petitioners argued that discouraging or preventing small congregations at homes is arbitrary and violates the right to practice religion freely.

Judges noted that while the state can regulate large public gatherings for law and order, imposing restrictions on private religious practices raises serious legal and ethical concerns. The bench emphasized equality before the law, cautioning against selective enforcement that could affect all communities.

The Uttar Pradesh government is expected to clarify whether formal orders exist or if local authorities acted independently to maintain public peace. Legal experts suggest the case may set important precedents for interpreting religious freedoms in private versus public spaces.

The matter has been posted for further hearing, with the court seeking detailed submissions from the state.