A group of Muslim youths from Uttar Pradesh’s Bhognipur area in Kanpur Dehat has demanded that cows be declared India’s national animal and given the status of “Rashtramata” (Mother of the Nation) or “Rajyamata” (Mother of the State).
The demand was raised through a memorandum submitted to Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, a senior Hindu religious leader and Jyotishpeethadhishwar Jagadguru Shankaracharya, by representatives of the Muslim Youth Society.
According to members of the group, cow protection should not be viewed as an issue linked to one religion alone but as a matter tied to Indian culture, environmental protection, agriculture, and the rural economy.
Memorandum Submitted by Muslim Youth Group
The delegation, led by Mohammad Ibadul Hasan, convenor of the Muslim Youth Society and a resident of Amroudha in the Bhognipur region, met the Shankaracharya and submitted a memorandum outlining several demands related to cow welfare and conservation.
In the memorandum, the group said cows have historically symbolised “service, compassion and reverence” in India and hold importance beyond religious belief.
“Cow protection is not a subject limited to any one religion or community, but an issue related to the sentiments of the entire society and nation,” the memorandum stated.
The Muslim youth representatives argued that cattle play an important role in farming, environmental sustainability, organic agriculture, and village-based economies.
Demand for Nationwide Ban on Cow Slaughter
The memorandum also called for a strict and effective nationwide ban on cow slaughter. In addition, the group sought better arrangements for stray and abandoned cattle by demanding properly managed cow shelters in every district.
They further urged authorities to introduce stronger laws for cattle breed conservation and promote cow-based agriculture, natural fertilizers, and organic products.
Representatives of the Muslim community requested Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati to raise their concerns before both state and central governments.
Call for Social Harmony
The Muslim youth group said their initiative was aimed at promoting social harmony and strengthening cultural values.
“This initiative could prove to be an important step towards strengthening social harmony, brotherhood and Indian cultural values,” the representatives said while appealing for broader support to their campaign.
