Muslims Slaughter Cow on Bakrid to hurt Hindu Sentiments [Ranchi, Jharkhand]

(Reported as seen)

On June 17, 2024, Ranchi, Jharkhand witnessed a contentious incident as a video surfaced showing individuals slaughtering a calf in public for Eid-ul-Adha, also known as Bakrid. This act, violating Jharkhand’s longstanding prohibition on cow slaughter since 2005, has sparked outrage and prompted swift police action.

The incident occurred in the Ramzan Colony area under the jurisdiction of Ranchi’s Ramzan Colony police station. As the video spread widely on social media, public outcry grew, demanding immediate action against the perpetrators, identified as Mohammad Amanullah and Hakim Khan. Both accused individuals reportedly fled the area following the video’s circulation.

KV Raman, Deputy SP of Ranchi city, confirmed that police responded promptly upon learning of the incident. They recovered meat from the scene, which has been sent for forensic analysis to determine the species slaughtered. The preliminary investigation strongly indicates that a cow, protected under Jharkhand law, was indeed slaughtered.

In response to the public uproar and political reactions, multiple police teams have been deployed to locate and apprehend Amanullah and Hakim Khan. The cow slaughter prohibition law in Jharkhand mandates severe penalties, including up to 10 years of imprisonment for such offenses.

Former Jharkhand Chief Minister and BJP State President Babulal Marandi criticized the state government, accusing it of appeasement politics. He highlighted the incident as a threat to communal harmony and societal stability, drawing parallels to situations in other states.

This incident in Ranchi adds to recent communal tensions surrounding cow slaughter during Bakrid celebrations in various parts of the country. Clashes between communities were reported in Gopinathpur village, Pakud district, and Balasore, Odisha, reflecting sensitivities and diverging opinions on religious practices and animal rights.

Authorities continue to investigate the Ranchi incident rigorously amidst heightened community concerns. The situation underscores the need for respect for legal frameworks and cultural sensitivities to prevent further escalation and ensure peaceful coexistence in diverse societies.