The central government has revealed in the Supreme Court the large-scale economic exploitation being carried out in the name of Halal certification. It stated that Halal certification is no longer limited to meat products but has extended to items like cement, steel bars, flour, gram flour, and even water. This certification process has not only led to higher product prices, increasing the financial burden on consumers, but also raised concerns that the earnings from Halal certification are being diverted toward funding jihadist and terrorist activities.
The Expanding Scope of Halal Certification
During the Supreme Court hearing on January 25, 2025, regarding petitions filed against the Uttar Pradesh government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta represented the central government. He informed the court that Halal certification is no longer confined to meat products. Even non-meat items like gram flour, flour, steel bars, and cement are being labeled Halal-certified.
Tushar Mehta remarked, “While there is no objection to Halal certification for meat, the need for such certification on non-meat items is baffling. This process has become a lucrative business.”
Allegations of Massive Earnings and Funding Concerns
The central government argued that several agencies are earning billions of rupees under the guise of Halal certification. The fees collected for these certifications have inflated product prices, forcing consumers to pay more. More concerning is the allegation that these earnings are being funneled into supporting extremist ideologies and funding activities linked to jihad and terrorism. The government questioned why non-Muslim consumers, who do not wish to purchase Halal-certified products, are being compelled to bear the economic burden of such practices.
UP Government’s Ban and Subsequent Controversy
In 2023, the Yogi government in Uttar Pradesh imposed a complete ban on the production, distribution, and storage of Halal-certified products in the state. The government justified its decision by stating that Halal certification does not indicate product quality but creates confusion and enables a parallel economic system.
This ban led some organizations to approach the Supreme Court, which subsequently placed a stay on actions against these agencies. The central government now points to the misuse of Halal certification proceeds, adding a new dimension to the debate.
Impact on Consumers and National Security
The government argued that the Halal certification stamp is a primary reason for increased product costs, with the additional fees passed on to consumers. Beyond economic concerns, the diversion of Halal certification funds toward extremist activities poses a direct threat to national security. This financial mechanism allegedly enables the spread of radical ideologies and funds activities that destabilize peace and harmony.
Next Steps
The Supreme Court has instructed the central government to provide a copy of its response on Halal certification to the petitioning organizations. The court will resume hearing the matter in March 2025. The government emphasized the urgent need to investigate and regulate the misuse of Halal certification proceeds, addressing both the economic and national security implications.
This issue goes beyond religious practices, touching upon serious economic, social, and security concerns. The expanding scope of Halal certification, its impact on product prices, and the alleged diversion of funds toward extremist activities raise pressing questions about consumer rights, market transparency, and national safety. The Supreme Court’s decision will play a pivotal role in addressing these multifaceted challenges.
Jai Bharat! Jai Hind!!
For more blogs please visit www.saveindia108.in and to join our whatsapp group please click https://chat.whatsapp.com/HxGZvlycYPlFvBO17O3eGW
