Tahreek Muslim Shabban mulling urging Muslims to refrain from sacrificing large animals: Mushtaq Malik
Hyderabad, June 4
Mushtaq Malik, President of the Tahreek Muslim Shabban, has made a significant statement regarding Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's recent remarks on demands to declare the cow as the national animal and the issue of large animal sacrifices during Eid al-Adha. He said his organisation is seriously considering a proposal urging Muslims to refrain from sacrificing large animals.
Significantly, Tahreek Muslim Shabban is a socio-religious organization dedicated to uplifting Muslim communities through education and economic empowerment.
Mushtaq Malik said discussions on the matter will be held with various Muslim organisations, religious scholars (Ulema), and community representatives before a final decision is taken.
Referring to the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister's comments, Malik said that the religious and cultural beliefs of every individual and community deserve respect. He noted that if a section of society regards the cow as a mother, it is a matter of personal faith and belief, and such sentiments should be respected. According to him, referring to any being as a "mother" or "father" is rooted in personal belief and should not be a subject of objection or conflict.
At the same time, Malik alleged that incidents of violence and unlawful activities carried out in the name of cow protection have been reported from different parts of the country. He stated that disputes often arise over the transportation and trade of bulls, buffaloes, and other large animals, causing difficulties and financial losses for farmers and livestock traders.
He pointed out that many farmers depend on the sale of livestock for their livelihood and that a large number of these farmers belong to non-Muslim communities. However, he alleged that vehicles transporting animals are often stopped shortly after the sale is completed.
According to Malik, individuals identifying themselves as cow vigilantes, members of certain organizations, or self-styled protectors of cows are involved in such actions. He further claimed that these activities continue with the support or patronage of sections of the administration and government.
In light of these concerns, Malik said that his organisation is considering a proposal to completely avoid the sacrifice of large animals during Eid al-Adha this year. He clarified that no final decision has been made so far and that extensive consultations will be held with Muslim organisations, Ulema, and responsible members of the community before arriving at a conclusion.
He emphasized that while Qurbani (ritual sacrifice) is an important religious tradition in Islam, the sacrifice of any particular animal is not considered an obligatory religious requirement. Therefore, he said, there is room for discussion and deliberation on the issue.
Malik added that if a broad consensus emerges during the consultations, an appeal may be issued asking Muslims to refrain from sacrificing large animals during Bakrid. He said the final decision would be taken after carefully considering the interests of the community, prevailing social circumstances, and the need to maintain communal harmony and mutual respect among different sections of society.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally! Common sense prevails. Why must we create tension over animal sacrifice when alternatives like goat or sheep are just as valid religiously? This is a step towards reducing communal friction. But I worry about the unorganized ghate (cow vigilantes) who'll continue their menace regardless...
Great initiative! But let's not forget that the real issue is not about what Muslims sacrifice, but about the climate of fear created by goons in the name of cow protection. The administration must act against these elements. Also, farmers of all communities suffer when livestock trade is disrupted.
As an outsider looking in, this seems like a very sensible and pragmatic approach. Religious practices should evolve to promote harmony, not division. Kudos to Tahreek Muslim Shabban for prioritizing peace over rigid tradition. This is the kind of leadership India needs.
While I appreciate the intent, I'm not fully comfortable. Why should any community change its religious practices because of threats from fringe elements? The state should protect everyone's rights equally. This voluntary sacrifice might set a wrong precedent. But if it's truly voluntary and brings peace, yoga (fine).
This is a very balanced and mature response from Mushtaq Malik. He respects both religious sentiments and social harmony. The real problem is the double standards - cow vigilantes roam free while the law is misused. I hope this leads to real dialogue and not just symbolic gestures. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
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