As Eid-ul-Azha approaches and only two days remain for the sacred ritual of Qurbani, the livestock markets across Kashmir have turned into centres of exploitation rather than places of religious preparation. Common people, already crushed under inflation and economic uncertainty, are being subjected to open loot by sheep dealers who appear to have no regard for either ethics or affordability.
Despite the government fixing rates for live sheep at Rs 375 per kilogram, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Buyers allege that many traders are openly violating official rates, demanding exorbitant prices while silencing anyone who dares to negotiate. Bargaining, once a normal part of livestock trade, is now being met with arrogance, intimidation and raised voices. The helpless customer is left with only two choices, either surrender to the inflated demands or abandon the religious obligation altogether.
What is more alarming is the complete absence of market regulation and enforcement. Authorities seem to have vanished precisely when their presence is needed the most. Rate lists exist only on paper while violations continue in broad daylight. If government orders can be ignored so brazenly, then one must ask whether there is any administrative control left over these seasonal markets.
Eid-ul-Azha is not meant to become a festival of financial torture. Qurbani symbolises sacrifice, compassion and devotion — not exploitation of the poor and middle class. Sadly, some traders have converted this sacred occasion into an opportunity for profiteering, showing little concern for the struggles of ordinary families trying to fulfil a religious duty with dignity.
The administration must immediately launch strict market inspections, impose penalties on violators and ensure that official rates are implemented without compromise. Silence at this stage would only embolden those who are fleecing the public under the cover of festive demand. The people deserve protection from this unchecked greed before Eid loses its spirit to commercial exploitation.
