The Uttar Pradesh government led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday banned the sale of halal-certified products across the state with immediate effect. According to a separate UP government decree, pharmaceuticals, medical gadgets, and cosmetic items bearing halal-certified labeling would also face legal action.
So why Halal has been banned? We Explain!
What is Halal Food?
Halal Food as that which is permitted under the Islamic Law. One of the many requirements is that the slaughter act should sever the trachea, oesophagus and main arteries and veins of the neck region of the animal.
According to The Indian Express, vegetarian food would be generally considered permissible or 'halal' unless it contains alcohol. Any consumable item can be deemed 'halal' or 'haram' as per the Islamic law.
What are halal-certified products?
A Halal certification is a guarantee that the food is prepared adhering to the Islamic law and is unadulterated. In India, halal certification is given by many private companies which marks the food or products permissible for the followers of the Islam.
Some of these halal certification bodies are recognised by the Indian government, while others do not have any recognition.
What led to the ban?
The ban comes after Lucknow police on Friday registered a case against a company and a few other organisations for allegedly exploiting people’s religious sentiments to boost sales by providing forged halal certificates.
The case has been lodged against Halal India Private Limited, Chennai; Jamiat Ulama Hind Halal Trust, New Delhi; Halal Council of India, Mumbai; and Jamiat Ulama, Mumbai.
What does the Complaint say?
The complainant alleged that, under the guise of religion, “unrestrained propaganda” is being pursued within a particular section of society to discourage the use of products lacking a halal certificate.
The complaint further alleged that the issuance of halal certificates for vegetarian products like oil, soap, toothpaste, and honey, where no such certification is necessary, suggests a deliberate criminal conspiracy targeting a specific community and its products.
What did the govt. say?
The official notification by Uttar Pradesh's Food Safety and Drug Administration department mentioned the Halal certification of food products as a parallel system that creates confusion regarding the quality of food items and is completely against the basic intention of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
The complainant reportedly expressed concern over these individuals "amassing disproportionate profits and potentially channelling funds towards supporting terrorist organisations and anti-national endeavours," the UP government's statement said.
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