"Protected animals should not be sacrificed": SP leader ST Hasan advises against politicising religious matters on Eid-al-Adha
Moradabad, May 28
Samajwadi Party leader ST Hasan on Thursday said religious sentiments should not be politicised, asserting that the traditional sacrifice will continue, adding that Muslims should refrain from consuming cows and other protected animals.
Speaking with ANI, said that the Muslims in UP have discouraged the practice of offering namaz on roads.
"In UP, namaz is not being offered on roads for quite a few years now. People offer namaz in two shifts in Moradabad. By making a political agenda out of religious sentiments, one should not mislead the country. Traditional sacrifice will continue. However, protected animals should not be sacrificed," he said.
"Cow should be officially declared the National Animal. The cow holds deep religious significance for millions of our Hindus. For this very reason, we Muslims refrain from consuming it, so that the religious sentiments of our Hindu brothers are not hurt in any way," he added.
His remarks come as a massive gathering of devotees offered namaz at Moradabad on the occasion of Eid al-Adha.
Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party MP Mohibbullah Nadvi on Thursday extended heartfelt greetings on the occasion of Eid al-Adha and reflected on the significance of the festival.
"People gather in mosques to offer prayers for the well-being of all. They commemorate the tradition of sacrifice, engaging in worship and offering expressions of gratitude. Through this observance, they affirm the fundamental truth that there is but one Master of all, and that we all share a common ancestry; consequently, we are bound to live together in mutual harmony, guided by the principles of humanity and justice," he said.
Security has been tightened in Noida to prevent the violation of law and order during the festival.
Joint Commissioner of Police (Law & Order) Rajeev Narain Mishra said that namaz is being offered at over 180 mosques in Gautam Buddha Nagar. The police have divided the region into three zones for proper surveillance and monitoring.
Eid Al-Adha or Bakrid is a significant Islamic festival also referred to as the 'festival of sacrifice'. It is observed on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and marks the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.
The date of the festival changes every year as it follows the lunar calendar, which is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar. This results in Eid moving earlier each year in the Western calendar cycle.
The festival is widely regarded as a time of joy, reflection and compassion, where people strengthen social bonds, forgive past grievances and engage in acts of charity and goodwill. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Abraham to sacrifice in obedience to God, symbolising faith and devotion.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting to see this nuanced approach from an Indian politician. In the West, we often hear simplified narratives about religious conflict in India. This statement shows there are voices of moderation and compromise within the Muslim community too. The proposal to declare the cow a national animal is a smart move for unity.
Good to see leadership from both communities working towards harmony. The fact that Muslims in UP have already stopped offering namaz on roads shows willingness to accommodate. But let's not forget - genuine harmony comes from the heart, not just political statements. Actions speak louder than words. 😊
While I appreciate the sentiment, I wish politicians would focus more on actual issues like unemployment and education rather than constantly talking about religious matters. Every festival season, we get these statements. Let's move beyond symbolic gestures and address real problems facing common people.
This is the kind of leadership we need more of - respecting each other's traditions while maintaining one's own. ST Hasan's approach of asking Muslims to avoid protected animals while preserving the essence of sacrifice is practical and considerate. Eid Mubarak to all celebrating! 🎉
Let's be honest - these statements are nice but they rarely change anything on the ground. The real issue is the divisive rhetoric that spreads during every festival. I hope people actually listen to this message of harmony rather than the hate-mongers who profit from division. Actions at the grassroots level will make the real difference.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.