Is Forced Collection Of Zakat Permissible In Islam?
Zakat should be willingly given by an individual with sincerity and the understanding that he’s performing an obligatory ibadah for his Creator and Sustainer. If he only gives it because of the fear of the state then in my opinion he won’t benefit from it as an act of worship. However, that doesn’t make enforcement of zakat invalid. Whether someone gives it while considering it an act of worship or not, the state still has to make its ends meet and carry out its own obligations. It is not an act of worship for the state, but it is their right and they can forcefully collect zakat.