Jaipur, May 28: Members of the Rajasthan Hajj Welfare Society on Thursday urged the government to declare the cow as the national animal, stressing that such a move would promote harmony and brotherhood in the country.
The society’s General Secretary, Sheikh Haji Nizamuddin, said the teachings of the Quran emphasise love, unity and mutual respect among communities. Referring to the prevailing social atmosphere in the country, he said granting national animal status to the cow would send a strong message of communal harmony.
“Eid al-Adha greetings to everyone. The Quran teaches brotherhood and love. Considering the current situation in the country, we want the cow to be declared the national animal so that a message of unity and brotherhood reaches every corner of the nation,” he said.
Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party leader ST Hasan cautioned against politicising religious sentiments and asserted that traditional practices associated with Eid al-Adha would continue while respecting protected animals.
Speaking to ANI, Hasan noted that Muslims in Uttar Pradesh have already taken steps to avoid inconvenience to the public during prayers.
“In Uttar Pradesh, namaz has not been offered on roads for several years. In Moradabad, people offer namaz in two shifts. Religious sentiments should not be turned into a political agenda to mislead the country. Traditional sacrifice will continue, but protected animals should not be sacrificed,” he said.
He further stated that the cow holds immense religious significance for Hindus and said Muslims refrain from consuming beef to respect Hindu sentiments.
“The cow should officially be declared the national animal. It has deep religious importance for millions of Hindus. Out of respect for our Hindu brothers, Muslims avoid consuming it so that their sentiments are not hurt,” Hasan added.
His remarks came as large numbers of devotees gathered in Moradabad to offer Eid al-Adha prayers.
Samajwadi Party MP Mohibbullah Nadvi also extended greetings on the occasion and highlighted the spiritual and humanitarian values associated with the festival.
“People gather in mosques to pray for the well-being of all. The festival reminds us of sacrifice, devotion and gratitude to God. It also reinforces the belief that humanity shares a common origin and must live together with harmony, justice and compassion,” he said.
Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakrid, is one of the most significant festivals in Islam and is observed on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The festival coincides with the completion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.
The occasion commemorates Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice in obedience to God, symbolising faith, devotion and selflessness. Celebrated with prayers, charity and community gatherings, the festival also serves as a time for forgiveness, compassion and strengthening social bonds.
