BJP and VHP Protest Against Cow Slaughtering, While BJP Muslim Leaders Organise Eid Cattle Markets in Several Areas in Tripura

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, May 27, 2026

As Eid-ul-Azha approaches, a sharp contradiction has emerged within Tripura’s political and social landscape over the issue of cow sale and slaughter.

On one hand, BJP leaders along with members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad have been staging protests in Agartala and various parts of the state demanding a ban on the sale and slaughter of cows during Eid. Hindu organizations and activists have intensified campaigns calling for protection of “Gomata” and stricter administrative action against cattle slaughter.

On the other hand, in several Muslim-majority areas of Tripura, including Sonamura, Boxanagar, Kailashahar and other regions, BJP’s Muslim leadership has reportedly been actively involved in organising and facilitating large cattle markets ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.

The contrasting developments have triggered widespread political discussion and public debate over ideological differences, religious sentiments, and administrative policies within the ruling party’s support base.

Sonamura’s Massive Eid Cattle Market Draws Huge Crowds Despite Rain

Ignoring heavy rain, thousands of buyers and sellers thronged the sprawling Eid cattle market in Sonamura on Tuesday. The market, considered one of the largest livestock markets in Northeast India during Eid season, witnessed brisk business throughout the day.

At the Sporting Ground cattle market in Sonamura, traders and customers were seen bargaining continuously amid festive enthusiasm. Though the market remained crowded during the day, many sellers reportedly had to return with unsold cattle after evening due to a drop in buyers. Prices of cattle also fell sharply during the late hours of trading.

Local Nagar Panchayat authorities reportedly waived market fees and arranged necessary infrastructure for the smooth functioning of the cattle market.

The Minority Cell of Tipra Motha Party appealed to people to perform Eid-ul-Azha rituals peacefully while following all administrative guidelines and legal regulations.

The organisation stressed the importance of maintaining communal harmony and respecting law and order during the festival period.

Meanwhile, animal rights activists and protest groups renewed appeals against animal sacrifice during Eid. Referring to earlier protests against goat sacrifice at the revered Tripura Sundari Temple, campaigners urged compassionate citizens to raise their voices against the killing of animals in the name of religious rituals.

The debate gained further attention after Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma appealed to Muslims in Assam to consider alternatives to cow sacrifice during Eid-ul-Azha. Several Muslim organisations in Assam reportedly supported the appeal, drawing praise from the Assam Chief Minister.

Against this backdrop, the large-scale cattle markets in different parts of Tripura have now become a major topic of social and political discussion across the state.

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