A fresh controversy has erupted after Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, President of the All India Muslim Jamaat, criticized Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami, calling him “a criminal” for not observing ‘Roza’ (fasting) during the holy month of Ramzan.
In a statement to ANI, Maulana Bareilvi said, “By not keeping ‘Roza,’ he (Mohammed Shami) has committed a crime. He should not do this. In the eyes of Shariat, he is a criminal. He will have to answer God.”
Bareilvi emphasized that observing Roza is a fundamental duty in Islam and anyone who does not adhere to it without valid reason is seen as committing a serious offense. “Roza is one of the compulsory duties. If any healthy man or woman doesn’t observe it, they will be considered a big criminal. Shami, being a well-known cricketer, was seen drinking water during a match — this sends a wrong message,” he added.
These remarks came after India’s four-wicket victory against Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy semifinal in Dubai, where Shami played a crucial role, taking 3/48 in his 10-over spell. His stellar performance placed him at the top of the tournament’s wicket-takers list alongside New Zealand’s Matt Henry, both with eight wickets.
However, Maulana Bareilvi’s comments have sparked backlash from various quarters. NCP SP leader Rohit Pawar defended Shami, praising his dedication to the sport and the country. “If Shami feels that fasting could affect his performance and, in turn, the team’s success, he makes a responsible choice. He is a true patriot who has made India proud many times. Religion should not interfere with sports. Every Muslim today would say they are proud of Mohammed Shami,” Pawar stated.
Shia cleric Maulana Yasoob Abbas also slammed the remarks, calling them an attempt at “cheap publicity.” He argued that religious practices are a personal matter and should not be turned into a public debate. “Where there is compulsion, there is no religion; where there is religion, there is no compulsion. Many Muslims don’t fast for various reasons — why single out Shami? It is wrong to drag Roza and Ramzan into controversy,” Abbas said.
Ramzan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims observe fasts from dawn to sunset, reflecting devotion, self-restraint, and spiritual reflection. Roza is one of Islam’s five pillars, symbolizing the faith’s core values.
This incident has reignited discussions around the balance between professional responsibilities and personal religious practices, with strong opinions from both sides.
