Deserving recipients of Zakat-ul-Fitr

Q 2: May Zakatul-Fitr (obligatory charity paid before the Festival of Breaking the Fast) be paid to poor people who smoke tobacco and eat Qat (Catha edulis) or not? (Part No. 9; Page No. 376

A: Such behavior of theirs should not prevent paying Zakah (obligatory charity) to them, for in spite of doing so, they are still considered Muslims. They are to be considered believers considering their belief and profligate considering the prohibited things they do. Moreover, authorities are to prevent them from these addictions and punish them for doing so.We ask Allah to guide them and direct them to that which He likes and that which pleases Him.May Allah grant us success. May blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions!