The Kamakhya Temple is situated at the Nilachal Hills of the capital of Assam, at the south bank of the Brahmaputra river. It is one of the oldest and most prominent Shakti Peethas (shrines). The current structure of this temple was built by the Koch dynasty in the 16th century. Around 5-20 hundred-thousand people visit the Ambubachi Mela which is held outside this temple for four days. This temple is known for a large number of animal sacrifices especially at the end of Durga Pooja every year which includes buffaloes, goats, ducks, pigeons, and birds. Many animal rights groups are standing up against this. The meat is distributed among devotees of the temple as holy offerings. The animal offering is voluntary; not compulsory.
The primary argument in favor of the sacrifices is that this is that it is thousands of years of tradition. However, traditions change with time. Unnecessary pain and suffering of animals needs to stop. One may argue "if the meat is consumed on a daily basis what's the harm in using it as offerings?’ Actually, the majority of temples do not have such types of rituals.
The killing of animals in religion is not illegal according to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960. Nothing contained in the act rendered it an ‘offense to kill any animal in a manner required by the religion of any community.’ Some states like Himachal Pradesh and Tripura have banned the killing of an animal in a temple. Kerala also banned the killing of birds for religious purposes through the Kerala Animals and Bird Sacrifices Probation Act of 1968.
Now, this act is being challenged in the Supreme Court (as it is only applicable for Hindus) after the Kerala High Court rejected this petition.
Written by Hardik
Artwork by Zara Masood
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