The Constitution of India prohibits the slaughter of cows and calves, and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act mandates kind treatment. Beating, kicking, overdriving, and torturing any animal is prohibited by Indian law. The transport of more than six cattle per truck or carrying animals upon any vehicle in a manner or position that causes unnecessary pain or suffering is also prohibited. Failing to provide one’s animals with sufficient food, water, or shelter is illegal as is the sale or possession of any animal, without reasonable cause, who is suffering pain by reason of mutilation, starvation, thirst, overcrowding, or other ill-treatment. PETA’s delegation found that the transport and slaughter of cattle in India violate all these laws, and the violations continue unabated.

It is for this very reason that Indian meat fails to meet halal standards. Islamic teachings are clear in that it is not enough to simply point cows’ heads toward Mecca and cut their throats. The entire process of the animals’ handling, from auction to transport to slaughter, must be kind and humane.

The information provided on this Web site demonstrates how factory-farmed meat from industrialized countries and even meat advertised as "halal" from India, a country in which the second most popular religion after Hinduism is Islam, violates Islamic reverence for life. It is evident that adopting a vegetarian diet is the simplest and healthiest way in which people can guarantee adherence to the gentle teachings of their faith.

· Inform fellow Muslims of the sad plight of animals killed for meat falsely advertised as "halal" by sending a letter to the editor of your favorite Muslim publication and local newspaper.

· Write to Indian Ambassador Naresh Chandra , asking him to work to enforce India's animal welfare laws and thereby ensure the humane treatment of animals killed for meat in his country.

His Excellency Naresh Chandra
Embassy of India
2107 Massachusetts Ave. N.W.
Washington, DC 20008
USA