MP Sanjay Raut compares Eid qurbani with temple’s rituals
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has sparked a fresh political and social debate after defending the practice of Eid “Qurbani” and comparing it with animal sacrifice rituals performed at the Kamakhya Temple.
Speaking at a press conference amid tensions surrounding Bakrid-related animal sacrifice in parts of Maharashtra, Raut questioned what he described as selective criticism of certain religious customs. Referring to rituals at the Kamakhya Temple, he asked why sacrifices associated with one faith are accepted while similar practices followed by another community face opposition.
Raut also said Maharashtra has historically been a land of meat-eaters and linked the tradition of sacrifice to the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Maratha warrior culture. According to him, sacrifice is deeply connected to both religious faith and the spirit of protecting the nation.
“Without sacrifice, neither the country nor Maharashtra can survive,” Raut said while defending the practice.
His remarks came amid controversy in Mira Road, where disputes linked to Bakrid animal sacrifice reportedly led to tensions and heavy police deployment in the area.
Raut further alleged that certain groups were attempting to polarise society ahead of elections by targeting specific religious customs and traditions.
The statement has drawn mixed reactions across political and social circles. Supporters defended Raut’s remarks, saying he was speaking against what they see as double standards in the treatment of religious practices. Critics, however, accused him of fuelling controversy by invoking religious rituals and identity politics.
