Dhaka: State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku today urged people to buy sacrificial animals from legitimate domestic sources rather than choosing smuggled livestock for the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha. He made the remarks while talking to journalists this morning after inspecting the Gabtoli cattle market in the capital ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the state minister emphasized the importance of purchasing animals from legal sources to ensure that the sacrifice aligns with Shariah principles. He noted that religious experts and Muftis could better explain the validity of sacrificing illegally imported or smuggled animals, but urged everyone to adhere to halal methods.
He further highlighted the spiritual significance of Qurbani, stating that it is performed solely to attain the satisfaction of Almighty Allah. Tuku stressed the importance of ensuring that the sacrifice is completed correctly and through proper means.
Medical centers have been set up at cattle markets to provide health services for livestock, with arrangements for immediate treatment of sick animals and supply of necessary medicines. Officials and veterinarians from the Department of Livestock Services (DLS) are working round-the-clock to address any animal health risks, Tuku added.
The state minister noted that approximately 1.23 crore sacrificial animals are ready across the country this year, against a potential demand of nearly 1.01 crore, resulting in a surplus of about 22 lakh animals. He stated that under these circumstances, there is no need to import cattle from abroad.
To protect local farmers’ interests, surveillance along the borders has been intensified, and stringent measures have been taken to prevent the illegal entry of livestock in coordination with law enforcement agencies. Tuku assured that the government remains vigilant to eliminate market management irregularities, ensure buyer and seller safety, and prevent fraud.
He mentioned that special arrangements and necessary equipment have been deployed to detect fake notes, along with 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.