Mumbai: All Maharashtra Khatik Association and Public Trust, an association of meat sellers, have written a letter to Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray seeking clarity on Bakri Eid which is next month on July 21.
In the letter they have expressed their concern over what new restrictions/ conditions state government would impose considering the prevailing Covid-19 situation.
Akhil Tade, Chairman of the association said, "Last year the state government just 20 days before the festival had directed to do the trading online. No guidelines were issued. How farmers are expected to do the trading online?"
During Bakri Eid, about 2.5 lakh goats are transported to Deonar abattoir for buying and selling. However, due to pandemic situation last year also no business was made.
"The last two lockdowns already made a financial breakdown among traders. Festivals are our only hope to make some earnings and business for us. The traders will adhere all Covid-19 safety norms. Our only demand is government should make decision considering the welfare of small traders," he said.
For Bakri Eid, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) spends crores of rupees. "They build makeshift tent, provide facility for drinking water, toilets etc. as goat farmers from across Maharashtra visit Deonar. Last year the budget money was not used. This time, too, no meetings have been conducted. Tenders have not been floated this year and all this has created confusion among traders," Tade stated.
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