A storm is brewing around cricketer Mohammed Shami's decision on fasting. After Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi from Bareilly criticized Shami, numerous religious leaders and BJP figures have rallied behind the cricketer. Shami's family and religious leaders have strongly condemned Razvi's remarks.
During Ramadan, while playing a match, a video of Shami drinking an energy drink surfaced. Subsequently, Razvi labeled Shami a 'criminal' for not fasting. Razvi claimed that deliberately skipping fasting is a sin in Islam. He advised Shami to seek forgiveness for this act.
Source: aajtak
Razvi's comments have sparked reactions. Maulana Yasub Abbas, Shia cleric and General Secretary of the All India Shia Personal Law Board, stated in Lucknow that the remark was made for cheap publicity. According to him, fasting is a matter of personal belief and should not be controversial.
Statement from Maulana Yasub Abbas
Yasub Abbas criticized Razvi's remarks as cheap publicity. Fasting is obligatory on all, but Islam does not enforce it forcibly. If someone is serving the nation, nobody should question if they are fasting. The religion allows making up missed fasts later.
Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahali's Take
Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahali of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board mentioned in Lucknow, "Fasting is mandatory for Muslims, particularly in Ramadan. However, if traveling or unwell, one can defer it. In Shami's case, since he was on tour, questioning him is unjustified."
He stressed that demanding fasting during national duty is inappropriate. Religion provides allowances for travelers. Such statements shouldn't demoralize players, and Shami should focus on winning matches for India.
Shami's Childhood Coach Badruddin Siddiqui Responds
Badruddin Siddiqui, Shami's childhood coach, criticized Razvi's remarks in Moradabad, stating that the entire nation supports Shami. A player’s respect for country supersedes all, and raising such issues against them is unwarranted.
Mohammed Shami's Brother Speaks
In Amroha, Shami's cousin Mumtaz commented that as a player, intense bowling prevents fasting during matches. If possible, Shami observes fasts during breaks or after resuming his routine. Similar practices exist among Pakistani players, making the controversy baseless.
Mumtaz emphasized Shami's dedication to the nation, highlighting the unnecessary drama around the incident.
Reaction from Maulana of Saharanpur
Maulana Kari Ishaq Gora of Saharanpur’s Jamiyat Dawat-ul-Muslimeen called Razvi’s statement absurd. People have their circumstances; travelers aren't obligated to fast. Commenting on social media without context is un-Islamic.
Response from Shama Mohammed on Rohit Sharma Post Controversy
Congress leader Shama Mohammed rebuked Razvi for attacking Shami. Islam permits travelers not to observe fasts. Shami is on duty playing a sport that demands hydration. The religion doesn’t enforce fasting while playing, upholding practicality.
The backlash was similar to her past controversial statements on cricket captain Rohit Sharma, leading to an apology from her.
Reactions from UP BJP Leaders
UP BJP spokesperson Rakesh Tripathi stated that religious practices are personal. No religious leader can dictate fasting. The party aligns with freedom of choice, and no individual should impose their views.
Ex-Minister and BJP member Mohsin Raza expressed that fasting is a personal matter between an individual and Allah. Criticizing Shami, who plays for the nation, showcases ignorance of religious allowances.
In response, Acharya Pramod Krishnam said true Muslims wouldn't oppose Shami, who is committed to his country. Critics of Shami lack understanding of Islam.
Full Statement of Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi
Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi criticized Shami for not fasting, a key Islamic duty. Observing audiences as Shami drank during a match, Razvi accused him of sending a wrong message by violating this tenet.
