25 May,2026 06:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
BJP leader Haji Arafat Shaikh has questioned the alleged action being taken against goat traders. File Pic/X
Ahead of the Bakrid 2026, Maharashtra Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Haji Arafat Shaikh has questioned the alleged action being taken against goat traders in the Mira-Bhayandar area of Thane district and urged the state government to issue clear guidelines regarding the transportation of goats.
The BJP leader raised concerns over vehicles carrying goats allegedly being stopped by authorities without clear explanations.
Speaking on the issue, Shaikh asked why transport vehicles carrying goats were being intercepted despite traders claiming they were operating legally.
He said there was confusion among traders and transporters due to the absence of clearly communicated rules regarding livestock transportation.
"Why are vehicles carrying goats being stopped?" Shaikh asked while demanding clarity from the state government.
Shaikh urged the Maharashtra government to establish transparent and uniform regulations for goat transportation to prevent inconvenience to traders and transport operators.
According to him, proper guidelines would help avoid unnecessary disputes, delays and alleged harassment during transport checks.
He also stressed the importance of balancing law enforcement with the protection of legitimate business activities linked to livestock trade.
Local traders have reportedly expressed concern over repeated vehicle checks and action taken against goat transport vehicles in the Mira-Bhayandar area.
Some transporters claim the uncertainty has affected their business operations and created confusion regarding required permits and compliance procedures.
Shaikh said the government should clearly define the rules applicable to animal transportation so that both authorities and traders can function without conflict.
He added that transparent implementation of regulations would reduce misunderstandings and ensure smoother business operations.
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government has ordered a statewide crackdown on illegal transportation of cows, unauthorised slaughterhouses, and animal cruelty ahead of the Bakri Eid festival, with Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik warning that strict action will be taken against violators.
The Transport Department has directed all Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), deputy regional offices, transport authorities, and border check-posts to conduct intensive inspection drives between May 25 and May 28, 2026. The move follows instructions issued by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis amid concerns over a possible rise in illegal cattle transportation during the festival period.
According to officials, enforcement teams will focus on border areas, Mumbai, major urban centres, and other sensitive routes where animal transportation violations are likely to occur. Vehicles carrying animals will be checked for permits, transport certificates, and compliance with animal welfare norms.
Speaking about the drive, Sarnaik said that the government would not tolerate illegal transportation or slaughter of cows under any circumstances. He stated that vehicles found violating provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, and related Central government regulations would face immediate seizure and legal action.
The minister alleged that incidents of illegal cattle transportation generally increase during certain festivals, with animals often transported in overcrowded and inhumane conditions. He said authorities had received reports of cattle being packed into vehicles without proper food, water, or safety measures during transit.
Sarnaik also referred to the Maharashtra government's decision to accord indigenous cows the status of "Rajyamata", a move backed by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. He described cow protection as both a legal and cultural issue and said the government was committed to preventing cruelty towards animals.
