Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami has come under fire from Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, the president of All India Muslim Jamaat, for not observing Roza (fasting) during the holy month of Ramadan. The cleric labeled Shami a "criminal" under Shariat law, asserting that fasting is a compulsory duty for all healthy Muslims.

The controversy arose during India's semi-final match against Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy, where Shami was seen drinking water on the field. Maulana Bareilvi commented, "By not keeping 'Roza' he has committed a crime. He should not do this. In the eyes of Shariat, he is a criminal. He will have to answer God." He further emphasized that such actions send a wrong message to the public.

In response, several public figures defended Shami, arguing that religious practices are personal choices. NCP SP leader Rohit Pawar stated, "Religion should not be brought up in sports." Similarly, Shia cleric Maulana Yasoob Abbas criticized the remarks as a publicity stunt, emphasizing that fasting is a personal decision, not a compulsion.

This incident has sparked a broader debate on the intersection of religious obligations and professional responsibilities, highlighting the challenges faced by athletes in balancing personal beliefs with public expectations.