Religious Aspect
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The debate on cows largely remains between Hindus and Muslims. Most Hindus, particularly the upper-class, are vegetarians and venerate cows as a symbol of life. The cow represents motherhood and is a provider of sustenance, fuel, and medicine. It is a central component in Hinduism and is historically known as a topic of controversy in India. Cows became viewed as a sacred animal when the Vedic tradition waned and Buddhism and Jainism became more prominent in Hindu culture (Nadal 82).
Muslims and Christians view cows as a part of their culture in a different perspective. The ban on slaughter of cows was legally determined on the basis of religious freedoms and personal liberties. Legal action against offenders could include life imprisonment (Gundimeda and Ashwin 171). “Cow vigilantes” or “cow protectors” who are largely Hindu have killed Muslims who are shepherds or cattle traders because their religion accepts the consumption of cows. They claim their violence towards humans is justified because cows and their progeny need to be protected.
During the seventeenth century, cows became a political pawn for Muslims and Hindus and spurred mass movements involving its divinity on both sides (Nadal 83). There has been social and political uproar for Hindus and government officials supporting these attackers of minorities. Minorities such as Muslims, Dalit, and women feel threatened and unsafe especially butchers, meat traders, and those involved in the tannery industry.
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