Amid the ongoing debate about declaring cows as the “national animal,” Congress leader Husain Dalwai emphasized that while some view cows as mothers, Muslims are not required to share that sentiment. Dalwai highlighted that historically, cows were regarded as state animals and emphasized their significance in the country. He stressed that while some may revere cows as mothers, Muslims have their own perspectives and beliefs.
Dalwai further expressed that the concept of the cow as a mother may not be universally accepted and cited the example of differing nationalistic references. He pointed out that while India is often referred to as “Bharat Mata,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reference to Israel as the “fatherland” during a visit raised questions about such symbolic associations.
Recently, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reiterated the sentiment that cows are like mothers to the people, emphasizing a deep emotional bond. He stated that this relationship does not require validation or a specific status, asserting the inherent respect for cows within the culture.
In response to calls by some Muslim clerics during Bakrid to declare cows as the national animal, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath declared that cows are already revered as the “Rashtramata” or mother of the nation. He dismissed the need for any formal declaration, emphasizing the existing cultural reverence for cows.
Various Islamic clerics, including those from Ajmer Dargah Sharif, Nakhoda Masjid in Kolkata, and Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah in Delhi, urged the Muslim community to abstain from cow sacrifice during Eid-ul-Azha. Calls were made to ban cattle slaughter and elevate the sanctity of cows by declaring them as the national animal.
