K'taka minister Priyank Kharge slams BJP over beef donor hypocrisy

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Tuesday alleged a contradiction between the BJP’s political stance on beef consumption and its acceptance of funds from meat exporters, intensifying the debate over economic policy versus cultural politics .

In a post on X, Kharge claimed that the Allana Group , one of India’s leading meat exporters, donated ₹30 crore to the BJP in 2024–25 , describing it as the company’s highest-ever contribution. He also alleged that the firm had previously contributed through electoral bonds. The minister argued that while the Centre promotes meat exports and expands global markets, individuals consuming beef domestically are often branded “anti-nationals”.

Kharge questioned what he termed the “moral difference” between eating beef and running a political party funded by companies engaged in the meat export business. Tagging the RSS and its chief, he asked whether they would protest against such donations if they truly prioritised Hindu sentiments.

The controversy has brought into focus the broader tension between export-driven trade strategy and domestic cow protection laws . India is among the world’s largest exporters of buffalo meat, commonly referred to in international trade as beef. The Union government has promoted agricultural and meat exports as part of its foreign exchange and trade policy.

At the same time, several BJP-ruled states enforce strict cow slaughter regulations , citing religious and cultural considerations. India does not have a nationwide ban on beef, and slaughter laws vary across states, often distinguishing between cow and buffalo meat.

Supporters of the government maintain that export promotion and domestic legal restrictions function under separate regulatory frameworks . Critics, however, argue that the approach reflects ideological inconsistency .

There was no immediate response from the BJP to the allegations.