Congress leader Shama Mohamed has stepped forward to defend Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami after he faced severe criticism from Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, the national president of the All India Muslim Jamaat. The controversy arose after Shami was seen sipping an energy drink during India’s semi-final clash against Australia in the Champions Trophy, leading to Barelvi branding the cricketer "a criminal" for not fasting (Roza) during the Islamic holy month of Ramzan.

In his criticism, Barelvi argued that Shami’s act of drinking during the match violated the principles of Islam and labeled him as a sinner for not observing the fast. He insisted that fasting is obligatory in Islam and that those who intentionally skip the fast should face consequences according to Shariat law.

Responding to this, Shama Mohamed has expressed her support for Shami, emphasizing that Islam allows exemptions for individuals engaged in physically demanding activities. Mohamed pointed out that fasting is not required for those traveling or performing strenuous tasks like athletes. According to Mohamed, since Shami was playing a sport, which involves heavy physical exertion and the need for hydration, fasting during such a time would not be obligatory.

In an interview with news agency ANI, Mohamed stated, “In Islam, there is a very important thing during Ramzan. When we are traveling, we don’t need to fast. Mohammed Shami is traveling, and he is not at his own place. He’s playing a sport where he can be very thirsty. Nobody insists that when you're playing a sport, you have to fast… It is your deeds which are very important. Islam is a very scientific religion."

This stance sheds light on the flexibility within Islamic law when it comes to individuals like athletes, who face unique challenges during Ramadan due to their physically demanding schedules. Shami, like many athletes, might be unable to adhere to fasting rules while performing in global competitions, especially when it impacts his performance and health.

Despite the controversy surrounding his actions, Mohammed Shami has continued to maintain his focus on his cricket career, with the support of several prominent figures like Shama Mohamed, who stand by his right to prioritize his health and performance while maintaining his faith.

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