A controversial and disturbing ritual took place at the Bheemeswara Temple in Raikal, Jagtial district, where approximately 50 goats were sacrificed in a manner that has sparked outrage. According to videos recorded by animal rights activists, the goats were killed by individuals biting their throats to make them bleed as part of the sacrifice. The sacrifices occurred on the final day of the three-day Bheemanna Jatara. Following a complaint, Raikal police registered an FIR against the organizers under various sections related to animal cruelty and prohibition of animal sacrifices. Locals claim that between 50 and 70 goats were sacrificed as part of the ritual known as ‘gavu pattadam', which involves killing animals by biting.
Activists have condemned this as one of the cruelest methods of killing animals, emphasizing that despite the illegality of animal sacrifices in Telangana, they continue to occur at many temples. Organizers defended the sacrifices, citing them as a longstanding tradition believed to fulfill wishes. Despite laws against such sacrifices, activists allege that several cases have been reported across Telangana in recent months. It is reported that about 10,000 people from various parts of Telangana and outside the state attended the Jagtial festivities that began on Feb 1.
