Mahar Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane has triggered a fresh controversy with his recent appeal to the Hindu community to purchase ‘Jhatka’ mutton from shops bearing the ‘Malhar certification’ He claimed that this certification would help Hindus identify mutton shops owned by members of their community. Rane’s remarks have drawn sharp political reactions, with the Congress accusing him of attempting to create a communal divide. Some leaders have supported his move, citing the right to make informed choices about food consumption. The debate continues to stir political tension in Maharashtra, with both supporters and critics expressing strong opinions on the matter. The controversy erupted after Rane on Monday announced an initiative to issue ‘MalHar certification’ to shops selling Jhatka mutton. The Hindu community should buy Mutton from these shops only, Rane had said, adding that the ‘J Hatka Mutton’ that is suitable for our Hindu society is free from any kind of mixing, such as Halal, spitting or other practices. He also emphasised the need for stricter regulations on meat shops, saying that all non-veg shops should be licensed, and no shops should operate on footpaths. He added that when we slaughter animals, the process involves not just killing but also inflicting pain, which releases harmful chemicals into the body, making it detrimental to health. However, Congress MLA Amin Patel dismissed Rane’s remarks as baseless.