‘Why Should Anyone Be Killed Over Religion?' Bengal Teacher Renounces Islam Over Pahalgam Attack
Sabir Hussain to News18: 'I've witnessed how religion is repeatedly used as a tool for violence, especially in Kashmir. I simply want to be known as a human being.'
Citing deep anguish over the Pahalgam terror attack, Sabir Hussain, a schoolteacher from Baduria in West Bengal, has announced his decision to renounce Islam.
Hussain plans to approach the court to relinquish his religious identity, seeking a life free of religious affiliation.
Hussain told News18: 'I mean no disrespect to any religion—this is a personal choice. I've witnessed how religion is repeatedly used as a tool for violence, especially in Kashmir. I can no longer accept this. I simply want to be known as a human being, not by any religious label. That's why I intend to make a formal application to the court."
#BreakingNews: Rahul Gandhi arrives in Srinagar, set to meet LG Manoj Sinha @Ieshan_W with details on his visit #PahalgamTerroristAttack #Kashmir #Pahalgam pic.twitter.com/hyAAIPCPMu — News18 (@CNNnews18) April 25, 2025
He emphasised his respect for all religions, but expressed how religious identity is misused in violent incidents, such as the one in Pahalgam. 'Why should anyone be killed because of their religion? That's what deeply upsets me," he said.
Hussain initially shared his decision on Facebook and has since reaffirmed his plan to legally disassociate from Islam. However, he clarified that he would not impose his beliefs on his family. 'My wife and children are free to follow whatever path they choose. This is my personal journey, and I will no longer associate myself with Islam," he added.
'Everything seems to revolve around religion these days. That's not the world I want to live in," Hussain stated.
His decision follows the Pahalgam incident, which he perceives as another instance of religion being used to justify violence—something he no longer wishes to be associated with.
First Published:
April 25, 2025, 13:09 IST
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