Mahadangal: Bakrid Sacrifice Sparks National Debate on Rituals, Rights, and Regulations | ABP NEWS

As Bakrid approaches on June 7, a fierce national debate has erupted in India over the ritual animal sacrifice associated with the festival. The controversy began with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), which demanded a ban on what it calls “cruel, violent and illegal” practices carried out in the name of Bakrid. VHP also expressed discomfort over what it described as “barbaric traditions.” Echoing these sentiments, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri (Bageshwar Dham) opposed not only Bakrid sacrifices but also the Hindu tradition of animal sacrifice. In Delhi-NCR, BJP MLA Nand Kishore Gurjar suggested celebrating symbolically by cutting cakes shaped like animals. Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government has issued detailed guidelines for sacrifice practices. In Maharashtra, opposition leaders allege that the BJP is stoking communal divisions for electoral gains ahead of BMC elections. Muslim leaders have responded sharply, defending sacrifice as an essential Islamic practice followed for over 7,000 years globally and noting similar rituals in Hindu culture. They argue that Bakrid is being unfairly targeted and politicized. The issue, covered under ABP News’ Mahadangal show, reflects deeper questions—Is this about civic regulation, religious freedom, or political posturing? And ultimately, who becomes the real “sacrificial goat” in this clash of beliefs?

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