In a controversial move, the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) has imposed an additional two percent levy on buyers purchasing sacrificial animals
An illustrative image related to: 'Qurbani Levy' sparks uproar at Bhatta Market, highlighting key aspects of the story. | Image source: The Express Tribune
'Qurbani Levy' sparks uproar at Bhatta Market
In a controversial move, the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) has imposed an additional two percent levy on buyers purchasing sacrificial animals from the Bhatta Ground cattle market for Eidul Azha. The move has triggered protests and confrontations between residents and contractor staff.
According to details, the cantonment board this year awarded the Bhatta Ground cattle market contract - not just for Eidul Azha but for the entire year - to a large consortium operating under Haji Ismail & Co for Rs3.05 billion. Under the accord, weekly cattle markets can also be held every Tuesday and Wednesday, while the contract includes a three-year extension clause with a 10 per cent annual rise.
However, for the first time, a clause has reportedly been included in the contract imposing a two percent "sale fee" on buyers purchasing animals for religious sacrifice. Residents have termed the levy unprecedented, claiming no such levy exists in other cattle markets across Rawalpindi, Islamabad or Punjab.
The levy is allegedly being collected forcibly by contractor staff. Buyers are first congratulated on their purchase and asked the price of the animal. They are then informed that two per cent of the amount must be paid as levy before the animal can be taken out of the market.
Witnesses stated arguments often escalate into scuffles and physical altercations. One buyer, Rashid, a resident of Rawalpindi's Gawalmandi area, stated he was asked to pay Rs6,000 as levy.
When contacted for comment, contractor partner Mustafa Baloch could not be reached despite repeated attempts. However, Assistant Engineer Naveed Hussain, the cantonment official overseeing the contract, verified that Clause 9 of the accord makes buyers liable to pay the two per cent sale levy and authorises the contractor to collect it.
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