No, Muslims in most parts of India no longer slaughter cows on Bakrid. While Islam permits the consumption of cow meat and allows cows to be sacrificed on Eid al-Adha, Indian Muslims have largely voluntarily refrained from cow slaughter out of respect for the religious sentiments of fellow citizens, especially in a country where the cow holds sacred value for the Hindu majority.
See Our Topic: Can Muslims avoid Cow Slaughter in India On Bakrid / Eid Ul-Adha
Islamic View on Qurbani (Sacrifice):
(a) Islam permits the sacrifice of goats, sheep, cows, ox and camels during Eid al-Adha.
(b) A cow, ox or camel can be shared by up to 7 people, making it an economical option in some regions.
(c) However, Islam does not mandate any specific animal. The obligation can be fulfilled by any halal animal that meets the Shariah conditions.
Indian Muslims and Cow Slaughter: A Responsible Shift
(a) Over the past several decades, most Indian Muslims have consciously moved away from cow slaughter, even in states where it may technically be allowed.
(b) This shift is based on:
* Respect for Hindu beliefs, where cows are revered as sacred.
* Social responsibility, aiming to maintain communal harmony.
* Legal restrictions in the majority of Indian states.
(c) In some states where cow slaughter is banned, Muslims may instead opt for the sacrifice of bulls, oxen, or buffaloes, which are legally permissible.
Islam Teaches Sensitivity and Peaceful Coexistence
This verse reminds Muslims to respect the religious sentiments of others, even while holding firm to their own beliefs.“And do not insult those they invoke besides Allah, lest they insult Allah in enmity without knowledge.”
— *Surah Al-An'am (6:108)
Qurbani Is About Obedience, Not a Specific Animal
(a) The essence of Eid al-Adha is submission to Allah’s will, not the type of animal sacrificed.
(b) As long as the qurbani is done with sincerity and meets Islamic conditions, using a goat, sheep, or buffalo is equally rewarding.
(c) To avoid any kind of social tension or communal unrest, Muslims across India now mostly perform qurbani using goats and buffaloes.
Conclusion
(a) Muslims in India generally do not slaughter cows on Bakrid anymore, even though it is Islamically permissible.
(b) Cow slaughter is not obligatory in Islam, and Muslims are free to choose other animals.
(c) By avoiding cow slaughter, Indian Muslims demonstrate respect, wisdom, and a commitment to national harmony, while still fulfilling their religious duties.