Agrilife24.com:Fisheries and Livestock State Minister Sultan Salauddin Tuku today urged citizens to purchase Shariah-compliant sacrificial animals from legitimate domestic sources rather than choosing smuggled livestock for the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha.
He made the remarks during an exchange with journalists this morning after inspecting the Gabtoli cattle market in the capital ahead of the major Muslim festival.
"Religious experts and Muftis can better explain the validity of sacrificing illegally imported or smuggled animals. However, I urge everyone to buy animals from legal sources to ensure the sacrifice aligns with Shariah principles," the State Minister said.
Emphasizing the spiritual significance of the festival, the State minister said that Qurbani is performed solely to attain the satisfaction of Almighty Allah. Therefore, everyone must remain conscious to ensure that the sacrifice is completed correctly and through halal means.
The state minister informed that medical centers have been established at the cattle markets to ensure health services for the livestock. Arrangements have been made for immediate treatment of sick animals, fever checkups, and the supply of necessary medicines.
Officials and veterinarians from the Department of Livestock Services (DLS) are discharging their duties round-the-clock at the haats to tackle any animal health risks swiftly, he added.
The state minister highlighted that around 1.23 crore sacrificial animals are ready across the country this year against a potential demand of nearly 1.01 crore, leaving a surplus of about 22 lakh animals. Under these circumstances, there is absolutely no need to import cattle from abroad, he stated.
"To protect the interests of our local farmers, surveillance along the borders has been intensified. In coordination with law enforcement agencies, stringent measures have been taken to prevent the illegal entry of livestock," the state minister maintained.
He further assured that the government remains highly vigilant to eliminate irregularities in market management, ensure the safety of buyers and sellers, and prevent fraud. Special arrangements and necessary equipment have been deployed to detect fake notes, alongside the active presence of law enforcement personnel on the ground.
Director General of the Department of Livestock Services Md. Shahzaman Khan, Director Dr. Md. Boyzar Rahman, and senior officials of the ministry and department were present, among others.
