Public Clarification on the Observance of Udhiyyah (Qurbani) During the Hajj Festival Period

In accordance with the Holidays Act No. 29 of 1971 in force in Sri Lanka and the relevant regulations concerning the prohibition of the slaughter of animals, it is stipulated that:

 

“No person shall, on any Full Moon Poya Day, slaughter any animal for the purpose of sale, or sell or offer for sale the flesh of any animal.”

 

Accordingly, this restriction applies specifically to the Poya (Full Moon) Day, which falls on Saturday, 30th May 2026. There is no legal prohibition on performing the obligation of Udhiyyah (Qurbani) on the days before or after the Poya Day.

 

However, it is important to recognize that, from a cultural and social perspective, the Vesak period may extend beyond the Poya Day. Therefore, observance during this time calls for sensitivity, mutual respect, and social responsibility.

 

With regard to the religious obligations and acts of worship associated with the Hajj Festival, the All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU) has formally communicated, by letter dated 23.04.2026, with His Excellency the President, the Hon. Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, and Deputy Minister of religious and cultural affairs seeking clarity and facilitation on this matter.

 

Furthermore, the Deputy Minister of Religious and Cultural Affairs, who also serves as the Government’s key Muslim representative, clarified on 26.04.2026 that:

 

There is no restriction on performing Uḍḥiyah (Qurbani) on days other than the Poya Day.

 

In addition, government officials have emphasized that the religious rights and practices of all communities will be respected, while also underscoring the importance of peaceful coexistence and national unity.

 

As the occurrence of a Poya Day during the Hajj festival period is a recurring reality, the ACJU has consistently engaged with the relevant authorities to facilitate the performance of Udhiyyah on permissible days. We take this opportunity to remind the community of these continued efforts and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that, this year as well, the observance of Udhiyyah is carried out smoothly and amicably.

 

In light of the above, we kindly urge the Muslim community, living within a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society, to:

The ACJU will continue its engagement with the relevant authorities and will keep the Muslim community informed of any further developments, In shā’ Allāh.