Fri Mar 07 04:31:55 UTC 2025: ## Congress Leader Defends Shami After Controversy Over Ramadan Fasting During Cricket Match
**Dubai, UAE –** A controversy erupted after Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami was seen consuming an energy drink during a Champions Trophy semi-final match against Australia, prompting criticism from religious leaders. However, Congress leader Shama Mohamed has defended the cricketer, citing Islamic allowances for fasting while traveling.
Shami, who played the match during the holy month of Ramadan, was criticized by Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, President of All India Muslim Jamaat, who labeled the cricketer a “criminal” for not observing Roza (fasting). Bareilvi stated that not fasting during Ramadan is a violation of Sharia law and a serious offense. He emphasized the obligatory nature of fasting for healthy individuals and expressed concern over the negative message this might send.
In contrast, Mohamed offered a different perspective. She explained that Islamic teachings permit those traveling to forgo fasting during Ramadan. Given Shami’s participation in a high-intensity sporting event while away from home, Mohamed argued that his actions were permissible within Islamic principles. She highlighted the importance of individual actions and emphasized Islam’s scientific approach to religious practice.
The differing opinions highlight a clash between interpretations of religious law and the complexities of balancing faith with demanding professional obligations. The incident has sparked a wider discussion on religious observance, athletic performance, and the public scrutiny faced by prominent athletes.
First Piper 