Union Minister Giriraj Singh has called on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to consider imposing restrictions on halal food products in Bihar, echoing a similar move in Uttar Pradesh, India.
Singh argued that the halal industry poses a threat to the nation’s interests, characterizing it as a form of betrayal. He explicitly stated, “We do not endorse the concept of halal certification.” This appeal has raised concerns and apprehension within the Muslim community in India.
This call for restrictions on halal certification follows the decision by the Uttar Pradesh government, led by Yogi Adityanath, to impose limitations on the issuance of halal certificates earlier this month.
The recent development has sparked a debate, with some political figures contending that such restrictions are misplaced. Muhammad Salim, a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), countered the narrative, stating, “Restrictions on halal certificates are wrong,” emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and understanding diverse dietary practices.
Critics argue that the decisions by the Uttar Pradesh and Bihar governments indicate a growing trend of Islamophobia. Muhammad Salim condemned the Bihar government’s move, asserting that it reflects an unjust bias against the Muslim community.
International media has also weighed in on the matter, describing the decision as “condemnable” and expressing concerns about potential discrimination against religious dietary practices.
India Begins Crackdown Against Halal-Certified Products Seller
Earlier, Indian officials conducted a raid on a McDonald’s outlet in Uttar Pradesh’s Lucknow following the state government’s ban on the distribution and sale of Halal-certified products, as reported by India Today.
The Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) officials found Halal-certified products during the raid and are now investigating McDonald’s management, considering imposing a fine of up to INR 300,000 for selling such products.
The ban, implemented on November 20 in India’s most populous state of Uttar Pradesh, covers various products, including dairy, garments, and medicines. The state government cited the illegality of distributing and selling Halal-certified items, asserting that it creates confusion about the quality of food items. Bakery products, sugar, edible oil, and other items labeled as ‘Halal-certified’ by manufacturers are included in the ban.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the country’s apex body for determining food product standards, was mentioned in the state government’s notification. The notification argued that introducing a parallel system of Halal certification creates confusion and emphasized FSSAI’s role in setting standards for most food products.
Uttar Pradesh, governed by Hindu monk Yogi Adityanath, a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is India’s largest and most populous state. Adityanath and his government have faced accusations of pursuing a divisive agenda against the state’s sizable Muslim population, allegations they consistently deny.
BJP spokesperson Rakesh Tripathi emphasized that religion should not be associated with food and explained that the ban extends to items like garments and sugar labeled as Halal, which is deemed against the law.
