Leaders and activists of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal on Monday submitted mass deputations to the offices of District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police across all eight districts of Tripura, demanding a blanket ban on cow slaughter and stronger measures for cow protection ahead of Bakri Eid celebrations.
The organisations urged authorities to take preventive action against any incidents of illegal cow slaughter and called for stricter enforcement of existing laws. They also demanded the establishment of a dedicated research wing for cow protection under the central government and allocation of special funds for the purpose.
Addressing the media, VHP leader Shankar Roy said cows hold deep religious significance in Hindu beliefs and are regarded as sacred. He expressed concern over reports suggesting preparations for cow slaughter in certain areas ahead of Bakri Eid and said the organisation strongly opposed such activities.
The VHP also reiterated its demand that cows be declared the national animal of India. According to the organisation, research into the medicinal and agricultural value of cow products such as dung and urine should be expanded through a dedicated institutional framework.
The memorandum submitted by VHP and Bajrang Dal leaders alleged that cow smuggling and slaughter activities continue in some areas despite existing legal provisions. The groups claimed that lax enforcement in certain places allows such activities to continue and urged authorities to strengthen vigilance.
The memorandum also appealed to community leaders and elders to promote awareness and maintain peace and sensitivity regarding the issue during the festive period.
Meanwhile, a contrasting picture of communal unity emerged from Boxanagar ahead of Eid celebrations. Local BJP MLA Tafajjal Hossain visited an animal market organised in the area where a large number of cattle had been brought from different parts of the state.
Speaking to reporters, Hossain described Boxanagar as a symbol of communal harmony and said people from different communities have long supported each other during religious occasions. He noted that the market management committee included members from different communities and highlighted the spirit of brotherhood in the area.
He also extended Eid greetings to the people of the state and expressed hope that the festival would further strengthen harmony, compassion and social unity.
