NEW DELHI: A political uproar has erupted in Maharashtra following the launch of ‘Malhar Certification,’ a new meat certification initiative introduced by state minister Nitesh Rane. The certification is designed for Hindu-owned meat shops selling ‘jhatka’ mutton, aiming to ensure that consumers purchase meat exclusively from vendors of the Hindu community.
Announcing the initiative, Rane stated that ‘Malhar Certification’ guarantees “100% Hindu-owned mutton shops, free from adulteration” and urged Hindu consumers to support certified vendors.
Opposition Slams Move, Calls It Divisive
The opposition swiftly condemned the initiative, accusing the government of attempting to divide society along religious lines.
Congress MLA Nana Patole criticized Rane’s remarks, asserting that such statements from a minister undermine governance. “A minister cannot talk like this. It reflects poorly on the Chief Minister’s control over his ministers. If anyone is inciting conflict between two communities, action should be taken,” Patole told ANI.
Congress leader Aslam Shaikh denounced the certification as unconstitutional. “Our Constitution gives citizens the freedom to eat what they want. Dictating who can or cannot sell meat is against our constitutional values,” he argued.
NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Jitendra Awhad accused the BJP-led government of stoking communal tensions, particularly during the holy month of Ramzan. “Whenever things are peaceful, the government finds ways to stir up Hindu-Muslim debates,” he said.
BJP Backs Rane’s Initiative
Despite opposition backlash, BJP MLA Sanjay Upadhyay defended Rane’s move, claiming that ‘halal’ meat poses health risks. “People should have the choice to buy non-halal meat. The halal process releases chemicals that are harmful to the body. Licensing for meat shops should be properly regulated,” he stated.
Rane stood firm on his initiative, insisting that ‘Malhar Certification’ would empower Hindu meat vendors while ensuring quality and hygiene. “This certification helps Hindus identify rightful mutton shops run by members of our community, ensuring purity and no adulteration,” Rane wrote on social media platform X. He further urged consumers to avoid purchasing meat from uncertified vendors.
What Is Malhar Certification?
According to the government website, ‘Malhar Certification’ applies to jhatka mutton and chicken vendors. The certification ensures:
✔ The meat is sourced from Hindu-owned businesses.
✔ Animals are slaughtered using the ‘jhatka’ method, which involves a swift, single blow.
✔ No mixing of different meats or saliva contamination.
Halal vs. Malhar: Key Differences
| Feature | Halal Meat | Malhar Meat |
| Slaughter Method | Islamic ritual slaughter with a prayer, allowing blood to drain gradually. | Jhatka method – instant death with a single blow. |
| Religious Association | Consumed by Muslims, adheres to Islamic dietary laws. | Promoted for Hindu consumers, sourced from Hindu-owned vendors. |
| Certification Authority | Certified by Islamic organizations following halal guidelines. | Introduced by Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane. |
With growing political tensions over the initiative, the debate over meat certification in Maharashtra continues to escalate.
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