Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) leader and MLA Humayun Kabir has voiced strong opposition to the West Bengal government's recent notification regarding animal slaughter. The directive, issued on May 13, mandates that a "fit-for-slaughter certificate" must be obtained for cattle and buffaloes before sacrifice. Kabir warned that any attempt to restrict the traditional 'qurbani' during the upcoming Bakrid festival would face resistance from the community.
Speaking on the issue, Humayun Kabir argued that a significant portion of the population relies on beef and questioned the logic of the new restrictions. He pointed out that the Indian government generates substantial revenue through beef exports and taxes. The MLA asserted that while the law should be respected, religious traditions rooted in the Quran would be upheld by the people regardless of the new guidelines.
- Mandatory certification — officials require health checks for all animals before slaughter
- Public slaughter ban — the government has prohibited ritual sacrifice in open public areas
- Legal challenge — the Calcutta High Court is currently hearing a plea against the notice
The AJUP chief specifically addressed Suvendu Adhikari, advising against policies that could create communal friction. "Do not play with fire," Kabir stated, adding that the Muslim community would not accept compromises on their religious obligations. He also demanded that the state administration provide specific grounds for Bakrid prayers to avoid overcrowding and public disruption.
Regarding the practice of offering namaz on public roads, Kabir mentioned that if the government fails to provide adequate space, the community will continue their long-standing tradition of praying on the streets. This comes at a time when other states, such as Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, have strictly banned religious gatherings on public thoroughfares to ensure smooth traffic flow and order.
