Ayodhya, May 21 -- Former plaintiff in the Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi case Iqbal Ansari on Thursday called upon the Muslim community to respect cows, suggesting that the central government accord national animal status to the bovine.

Speaking to ANI, Ansari emphasised the cultural and religious significance of the cow in India, noting that the sentiments of the majority community must be honoured.

"We are Indian Muslims, and the cow is called 'Gaumata', and Muslims should respect cows. The government should declare it the national animal," Ansari said.

He strongly advocated for a complete halt to the practice of cow slaughter, asserting that such acts are often used by certain elements to create communal discord and malign the Muslim...