Jaipur : — A political controversy has erupted in Rajasthan after 9,350 goats from indigenous breeds—Shekhawati, Sirohi, and Bikaneri—were exported to Gulf nations ahead of Eid ul Azha (Bakrid) for ritual sacrifice, as per a report by the Indian Express.This marks the first time the desert state has seen such a large-scale air cargo export of goats, raising both economic and communal debates.
The goats were transported via several cargo flights, each carrying between 450 and 950 goats, with shipment weights ranging from 500 kg to 15,000 kg. The first consignment left Jaipur on May 1. The growing number of direct flights from Jaipur to the Gulf has turned the city into a key export hub for sacrificial animals.
However, the move triggered a fierce political exchange between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Opposition Congress. Rajasthan’s Animal Husbandry and Devasthan Minister Zoraram Kumawat criticized the export, saying, “Eid ul Azha may be significant for a religion, but in our culture, animal sacrifice is unacceptable. These animals support livelihoods and contribute to our GDP.”
When questioned about potential restrictions on goat sacrifices during Bakrid, Kumawat replied that while no such plan exists currently, “killing animals is wrong.”
The comment drew strong criticism from Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully, who accused the BJP of selective outrage. “The BJP suddenly remembers goats during Bakrid but stays silent on cow slaughter and beef exports. India remains one of the top beef exporters, but BJP leaders won’t speak about that,” he remarked.
Jully also questioned Kumawat’s awareness of the facts, saying, “He’s a good man, but misinformed. With proper data, he wouldn’t have made such statements.” He further alleged that the BJP was attempting to inflame communal tensions using religious festivals as tools. “First ban beef exports, then lecture on goats,” he added.
Social media platforms have since erupted with polarised reactions. While some religious and cultural groups praised the government’s facilitation of exports, others condemned both the act and the ensuing political discourse.
The debate highlights the growing clash between cultural sentiment, economic opportunity, and political rhetoric, particularly around religious events.
