In a decision that could spark nationwide outrage, the BJP government in Rajasthan has decided to ban camel slaughter in state.
Last year, Rajasthan designated the camel as its state animal in the hope of curbing the growing illegal trade of camels and camel meat. The bill passed through voice vote bans slaughtering, trading and unauthorised transportation of camels and set a five-year jail term and a fine for slaughtering or injuring the animal, popularly referred to as ship of the desert. However, the camel can be used for domestic and agricultural purposes.
Rajasthan chief minister was not available for comment on the issue.
Rajasthan's Agriculture Minister Prabhulal Saini said camels were used in the state for several purposes, like the patrolling of borders and as a tourist attraction, and hence, were of much importance. "Keeping the conservation and breeding of camels in mind, the chief minister had announced the camel as the state animal. Banning its slaughter would be a big challenge as for the past 150 years it has been a tradition to slaughter camels on the occasion of Id-ul-Zuha," said Saini.
Condemning the decision, Rajasthan's lone Rajya Sabha member Sagarika Ghose said BJP leaders claim they hold their motto 'sabka sath sabka vikas' in high esteem yet they preach hindutva ideology.
Ghose alleged that in the name of 'Swachh Bharat', BJP perhaps wants to obliterate minorities in whatever form they exists, adding that she would raise the issue in Rajya Sabha tomorrow.
"This seems like it is just the beginning. Hope the government does not ban chicken next" Congress leader Rajdeep Sardesai said.
BJP spokespersons shied away from commenting on the decision while the party's ideological mentor, the RSS, refused to be drawn into the controversy.
Rajasthan Assembly bans slaughter of camels as it hurts hindu sentiments
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