Mumbai: A dispute has emerged over the slaughtering of goats for Eid-al-Adha or Bakri-Eid within a housing society in Ghatkopar West. Built in 1982, the Maitri Society at Damodar Park has been protesting against the ritual since last year. Last year, the protesting residents had approached the court, which asked the authorities to proceed as per law.
A resident, Advocate Bharati Mishra, said, “As per a high court ruling, if a slaughterhouse is located within 1km of a society, residents are not permitted to keep or slaughter goats within the premises. We asked how the BMC gave permission last year to begin with. The squealing of goats, bloodstained areas, and the stench cause serious inconvenience to the residents.”
However, society member Altaf Shaikh said that only two residents out of 130 have objected. “I agree that in a democracy, everyone has the right to object, but their objection should be based on facts. This year, the BMC recommended a shop for the slaughter, but it is too small for the number of people involved,” he added, alleging political pressure, especially after a leader visited the society last Sunday.
A BMC officer said that as per the high court directive, they have made arrangements for slaughterhouses in nearby areas and have informed the society members. Shaikh denied claims that 200 goats are slaughtered, saying only 30-35 goats are brought. “The society premises are open to members of all religions for free. Everyone should respect the values of society,” he said.
The residents said the BMC hasn’t given any permission this year and only the option to use a shop, even if it’s small. Another resident, Laureta, said the ritual started within the society's premises after 2000. “Every year, they set up tents and slaughter goats. They even earn commissions by slaughtering goats for others and collecting goats from different places. The BMC officials are corrupt.”
However, the Parksite police said that so far, no one has filed a complaint. However, on Eid, they will deploy police personnel in the area and continue patrolling regularly. If the department concerned rejects the permission for slaughtering in the society, they will take action as per law, officials said.
