Kolkata, May 20: Political tensions are rising in West Bengal regarding open prayers and animal sacrifices. Humayun Kabir, president of the Unnayan Party, has targeted the BJP and Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, stating that the Muslim community will not compromise on the issue of sacrifice.
In an interview, Kabir emphasized the need to respect the Constitution but insisted that sacrifices will occur. “Cows, goats, and camels will be sacrificed. Only the animals permitted for sacrifice will be used. I warn the BJP government. I am directly telling Suvendu Adhikari not to play with fire,” he stated.
He warned that any attempts to ban sacrifices would create difficulties for the government. The Muslim community is firm on not compromising regarding this matter.
Kabir pointed out that over 37% of Muslims consume beef. “First, slaughterhouses should be closed. They have been licensed to operate. The Indian government is profiting from exporting beef. Will the government stop this?” he questioned.
He also urged the government to provide a large ground for Eid prayers. “If arrangements are not made, we will be forced to pray on the streets,” he added.
In response, BJP leaders have stated that the issue is not against any religion but against appeasement. They noted that even in Islamic countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, or Iran, there are restrictions on praying in the streets. Thus, this should not be viewed from a religious perspective.
The West Bengal government has issued a formal public notice reiterating a strict ban on the slaughter of cows and buffaloes without a fitness certificate. This notice was released ahead of Bakrid on May 27. It states that no bull, calf, cow, or buffalo can be slaughtered without a certificate signed by two different officials. Violations will be treated as a cognizable offense, punishable by up to six months in prison and a fine of up to one thousand rupees.
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