Karnataka: In the latest campaign targeting Muslims, Hindutva organizations and BJP leaders in the Karnataka state have begun raising objections to sale of ‘Halal’ meat. The development comes in the wake of the recent ban calls made by the right wing groups on Muslim shops and stalls at Hindu religious fair and temple premises in the coastal regions of Karnataka.
Hindu Janajagrithi Samithi, a right-wing group, said that they are starting a campaign against the purchase of ‘Halal’ meat as it is “culled under Islamic practices and cannot be offered to Hindu gods”. Mohan Gowda, Samithi spokesperson said, “During Ugadi (considered the New Year for Kannadigas), there is a grand purchase of meat, and we are starting a campaign against Halal meat.
As per Islam, Halal meat is first offered to Allah, and the same cannot be offered to Hindu gods.” BJP National General Secretary C.T. Ravi said that ‘Halal’ meat is part of an “Economic Jihad” by the Muslim community. He further said that it has been imposed on them so that they don’t have to do business with others. BJP legislator from Chikmagalur said in Bengaluru, “When Muslims refuse to buy meat from Hindus, why should you insist Hindus to buy from them?” He further said that such trade practices are a two-way street. “If Muslims agree to eat non-Halal meat, then Hindus will also use Halal meat.” Former Chief Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy lashed out at the BJP, saying that the government is responsible to protect all 65 million people in the state and not just one community. He added that the BJP is backing such bans demanded by the right-wing groups as the 2023 assembly elections are in fray.
Meanwhile, 61 progressive thinkers from the state, including K. Maralusiddappa, Professor S.G.0 Siddaramaiah, Bolwar Mahamad Kunhi and Dr Vijaya, have written to Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai with an appeal to check religious hatred. The demand for ban on ‘Halal’ meat comes after the ‘Hijab’ controversy, which has compelled 400 Muslim students in Karnataka’s Udupi district to opt out of class. The Karnataka High Court earlier this month upheld the state government’s ban on wearing Hijabs in school and college classrooms, saying it is not an essential part of Islam. Web Desk
