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From the uprising of 1857 to the devotion of today, Gau Mata remains our immortal reverence

By prasanna jodidar
From the uprising of 1857 to the devotion of today, Gau Mata remains our immortal reverence

Rooted in devotion, bound by faith: Protecting Gau Mata is protecting our soul.

Just before one day of Eid-ul-Azha (Bakrid), the statement was issued by Surendra Jain, the central joint general secretary of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP). His remarks were timely and came when there’s an intensive national discussion about animal sacrifice regulations and anti-cow slaughter laws. Amazon Brand - Myx Women's Pure Cotton A-Line 3 piece Schiffli Suit Set (Available in Plus Sizes)

Jain highlighted that for peaceful coexistence to be upheld in a diverse society, every community must learn to respect the religious beliefs and deep-rooted sentiments of others.

He asserted that the Hindu community worships the cow as a mother (Gau Mata). He articulated regret over what he described as "repeated arguments and insistence" by a section of people to justify cow slaughter, declaring that such debates deeply hurt Hindu sentiments.

Jain amenably protested to arguments suggesting the cow be declared India's "national animal." He argued that categorizing Gau Mata merely as an "animal" is an insult to Sanatan traditions and Hindu faith, as her status is much higher in religious devotion. Forced from their homes with only the clothes on their backs, thousands face an abrupt end to their dreams

The VHP leader pointed out that anti-cow slaughter laws are already in force in more than half of the country. He continued that the Hindu community would not tolerate cow slaughter under any circumstances and called for strict adherence to existing legal frameworks.

To emphasize the depth of the sentiment, Jain appealed the 1857 Revolt, claiming that the historic uprising against British rule was deeply intertwined with the protection of cows, proving that the society is willing to go to any extent to protect its faith. A Failing Balance: As Senator Graham demands answers over Islamabad's anti-Israel stance

Jain's remarks came after the recent developments, Calcutta High Court decision that declined to stay a West Bengal government notification. The state's directive mandates that no animal (including cattle) can be slaughtered for Eid-ul-Azha without a formal "fit certificate" from authorities, and strictly prohibits animal slaughter in open public spaces. The VHP welcomed the court's stance, restating their demand for a permanent, nationwide ban on cow slaughter.