'Those asking us to play dry Holi should sacrifice a virtual goat: Nitesh Rane makes BIG comment on Bakrid sacrifice

Mumbai: A nationwide debate has erupted regarding the sacrifice of voiceless animals during Bakrid (Eid-ul-Adha). In Maharashtra- including Mumbai and the rest of the state - the sacrifice of cows has been prohibited. Furthermore, orders have been issued forbidding animal sacrifices in public places. Amidst this backdrop, Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane has issued a significant statement regarding the practice of animal sacrifice during Eid-ul-Adha.

What did Nitesh Rane say?

He remarked, "They tell us to play a 'dry Holi'; well, you should perform a 'virtual' goat sacrifice." Maharashtra government minister Nitesh Rane suggested that, in order to celebrate Bakrid, people should display a picture of a goat on a computer screen and simulate a 'virtual' sacrifice. Bakrid is scheduled to be celebrated on May 28th. On this occasion, members of the Muslim community traditionally offer animal sacrifices.

"During our festival of Holi, we are often told that the celebration should be mindful of the environment—specifically, that we should play a 'dry Holi.' Similarly, during Diwali, we are advised not to burst firecrackers. Those who offer such advice should now counsel people to celebrate Bakrid by displaying an image of a goat on a computer and performing a 'virtual' sacrifice."

Why Did Nitesh Rane Issue a Challenge?

"This is a point we all need to grasp: whenever our festivals - be it Holi or Diwali - arrive, certain individuals invariably step forward to offer us unsolicited advice. As Veer Savarkar once observed, 'Hindus face no threat from Muslims; the threat comes from within the Hindu community itself—from our own incompetent elements.' Why do these advisors not direct their counsel toward 'them'?" Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane further asserted.

"Do the environmental activists possess the courage to offer this specific piece of advice? Let them try doing so just once, and then let's see where they end up wandering!"

During the event, Nitesh Rane appealed for Hindu unity in areas such as Neral. He emphasized that it is absolutely crucial for Hindu society to stand united. He stated that, as Hindus, we must all demonstrate a spirit of solidarity. Rane concluded by expressing his firm assurance that, as a government, they remain fully committed to ensuring the safety and delivering justice to the community.

How Did Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi Respond to Nitesh Rane's Statement?

Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, National President of the All India Muslim Jamaat, on Monday strongly criticized Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane for his remarks in which he had suggested the concept of "virtual sacrifice" during Bakrid. He stated that Islam is a practical religion and accused the Minister of lacking knowledge regarding Islamic traditions and Madrasas. Alongside his suggestion for virtual sacrifice, Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane had also launched an attack on Madrasas during the event. Rane alleged that such institutions serve as centers of radicalism rather than education.