In a significant act of compassion, members of the Jain community in Delhi have purchased over 100 goats to save them from being sacrificed during the Muslim festival of Bakrid. This initiative, which aims to protect animal lives, has sparked a debate about its broader implications and motivations.
The Jains bought these goats a day before Bakrid, a festival where Muslims traditionally sacrifice goats. The purchased goats were sent to shelters established by the Jain community, such as the Jeev Daya Sansthan in Aminagar Sarai, Uttar Pradesh, which currently houses around 450 goats. Dinesh Jain, a member of the community, stated that the inspiration to save these animals came from Jain saints, and the shelter now benefits from the support of many generous donors (Hindustan Times) (Free Press Journal) (Business Today).
However, this act raises several questions. Critics argue that Jains only seem to save goats during Muslim festivals like Bakrid, but remain silent during Hindu festivals where animals like buffaloes and goats are also sacrificed. Additionally, everyday slaughter of goats, bulls, and chickens for food in markets, hotels, and homes around the world does not receive the same attention. This selective intervention suggests that the act might be more about gaining publicity rather than a consistent ethical stance against animal slaughter.
Moreover, some critics view this initiative as being indirectly critical of Muslim practices, questioning why similar efforts are not seen for other religions’ rituals. They argue that purchasing goats to save them just for one day does not address the larger issue of animal slaughter in everyday life. Instead, it highlights a momentary act of compassion rather than a sustained commitment to animal welfare.