High-priced cattle market auctions turn Eid into a burden for citizens

Rawalpindi:The Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB), in collaboration with powerful contractors, has turned the sacred occasion of Eidul Azha into a commercial venture, making it increasingly difficult for the general public to fulfill their religious obligations. The auction of cattle markets in cantonment areas has transformed this Islamic festival into a profit-making exercise, burdening citizens already struggling with inflation.

This year, the RCB auctioned the largest cattle market in the twin cities—located at Bhatta Chowk—for a record Rs165.7 million. This is Rs55.8 million higher than last year’s winning bid of Rs109.9 million. The winning bidder, Moin Khan (Token No. 3), secured the contract in a process that RCB claims was transparent, with 24 participants competing.

Despite the RCB's assertions of fairness, the financial burden of this high auction price is ultimately being passed on to the public. Entry fees have been fixed at Rs3,000 per animal, whether large or small, for those bringing livestock for sale. Residents fear this will only push up prices further for sacrificial animals ahead of Eid.

In stark contrast, cattle markets operating under Punjab government jurisdiction remain tax-free, earning public praise for Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Buyers and sellers are questioning why RCB and Chaklala Cantonment Board (CCB) continue to flout Punjab government’s orders to make cattle markets tax-exempt.

Adding to public anger is the situation in Rawat, where the cattle market—also under the control of the Cantonment Board Management (CBM)—has become a hotspot for exploitation. Private contractors, reportedly backed by musclemen, are illegally collecting a 7–10% commission from both buyers and sellers. Despite clear directives from the Punjab Home Department to keep markets tax-free, no action has been taken by the local administration or cantonment authorities.

According to a survey by ‘The News’, the average price of a goat now starts at Rs70,000, and cows at Rs250,000—prices out of reach for most middle- and low-income families. This spike is largely attributed to the high cost of market auctions and unchecked profiteering by private contractors. Muhammad Bashir, a concerned citizen, said, “I appeal to the authorities to intervene, ensure price controls, and prevent exploitation in these markets. The spirit of Eid is about compassion, sacrifice, and sharing—not profit and greed.”

Buyers in Rawat have voiced their frustration, as arguments and even physical brawls have erupted over the illegal collection of taxes. Meanwhile, officials from RCB, CCB, and Potohar Town have remained silent, refusing to clarify who authorized the contracts for the Rawat market—contractors claim they’ve paid huge sums to the Cantonment Board Management for permission.

Shah Muhammad, another buyer, stressed the need for reform, “All cattle markets should be tax-free. Auctions should be abolished, and the Cantonment Board should facilitate sellers, not exploit them. I request higher authorities to take immediate action against this powerful mafia.”

People from various walks of life have appealed directly to Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, urging him to take notice of this exploitation and ensure relief for the public on this important Islamic occasion. They demand strict action against departments and contractors openly violating government directives and causing widespread resentment.