The president of the Karnataka chapter of Jamiat-Ulema-e-Hind, Maulana Mufti Ifteqar Qasmi, has advised Muslims in the state against slaughtering a ‘particular animal’ during Bakrid (Eid-ul-Azha) due to the existence of the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Act. He cautioned against creating legal hurdles and urged the community to maintain peace and order, while also discouraging the public display of animals during the festival.
Qasmi emphasized that although the government has changed in the state, the law enacted by the previous BJP regime, which prohibits the slaughter of a specific animal, remains in force. He urged Muslims to refrain from sacrificing the animal in question, as it holds significant religious symbolism and is regarded as “gau mata” or mother cow by a large section of the community.
“In this context, it is not advisable to sacrifice the particular animal when there is already a law in place that prohibits its sacrifice,” Qasmi stated during an interview with PTI on Monday. He stressed the importance of adhering to the law and not allowing any troublemakers to exploit the situation.
The cleric further appealed to Muslims to abstain from parading animals on public roads, particularly in full public view. By complying with the law and maintaining cleanliness standards, the community can contribute to a peaceful and harmonious celebration of Bakrid, he added.
While the new Congress government in Karnataka has expressed its intentions to repeal the anti-cow slaughter legislation introduced by the previous BJP regime, Qasmi highlighted that the existing law is still in effect and must be followed until any official changes are made.
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