Fresh political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after Humayun Kabir made strong remarks defending animal sacrifice during Bakrid, days after the state government intensified action against illegal cattle slaughter and unauthorised slaughterhouses.
Kabir, who heads the Aam Janata Unnayan Party, said ritual sacrifice linked to Bakrid would continue regardless of objections, triggering sharp reactions from political and religious circles.
Remarks Made Amid Government Crackdown
The controversy comes shortly after the government led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari directed authorities to tighten enforcement of cattle slaughter laws and monitor illegal animal trade more closely.
The administration recently held a law-and-order review meeting at Nabanna, where officials were instructed to take strict action against illegal slaughter activities and strengthen checks in border districts to prevent unlawful cattle movement.
Police departments were also told to ensure that licensed cattle-related operations function strictly within the legal framework.
“Sacrifice Will Continue,” Says Kabir
Speaking to reporters in Hooghly, Kabir defended the practice of qurbani and stated that religious sacrifice would continue despite criticism or restrictions.
“The government can make a rule asking Muslims not to eat beef, but ritual sacrifice will continue. We won’t listen to objections,” Kabir said.
He further asserted that the practice had existed for centuries and would continue in future as well.
“Saying sacrifice will stop is impossible. Cows, goats, camels and all animals permitted for sacrifice will continue to be sacrificed,” he added.
His remarks quickly triggered reactions across political circles and social media, especially amid ongoing debates surrounding religious practices and animal slaughter regulations.
Religious Leaders Appeal for Restraint
Amid the growing controversy, senior cleric Toha Siddiqui appealed to people to follow the law and avoid cow slaughter during Bakrid celebrations.
“Everyone should obey the law against cow slaughter. Cows should not be slaughtered during sacrifice,” Siddiqui said.
At the same time, he questioned why restrictions were not applied uniformly across different parts of the country and remarked that dietary habits should not become a source of division.
Congress Leader Calls for Sensitivity
Senior Indian National Congress leader Husain Dalwai also urged restraint and called for respecting religious sentiments.
“If the sentiments of our Hindu brothers are hurt by cow slaughter, then we should avoid sacrificing cows,” Dalwai said, suggesting that alternative animals could be used for ritual sacrifice instead.
Kabir No Stranger to Controversy
Humayun Kabir has frequently found himself at the centre of political controversies over provocative remarks.
Last year, while serving as a legislator with the All India Trinamool Congress, he had announced plans linked to constructing a “Babri Masjid foundation stone” event in Murshidabad on December 6, the anniversary of the Babri demolition, drawing nationwide criticism and accusations of communal polarisation from opposition parties.
