Team Goemkarponn
MARGAO: Despite reports that the recent problems with the supply of beef have been rectified, beef sellers are voicing concerns about suspected extortion by a group that they say is specifically targeting their business, particularly during the holiday season.
Traders claim that this group causes major losses to the beef trade and related industries by upsetting the supply chain during times of peak demand, such as Christmas and Eid. The traders are angry and want the government to step in to protect their livelihoods because they believe the gang is increasing extortion demands during periods of high business.
Days before Christmas, a fight between two groups in Margao sparked the dispute by upsetting the beef trade and hurting companies that relied on a consistent supply. Even while things have improved, traders are still cautious about potential disruptions.
The All Goa Beef Traders Association’s vice president, Shabbir Bepari, said that while the supply of beef from neighboring states has stabilized, he emphasized the pattern of periodic disruptions. We’ve observed that this disruption in commerce only occurs around the holiday season, such as Christmas or Eid. According to him, these organizations make sure that the extortion money they want from beef sellers gets raised.
According to Bepari, extortion is not just a problem for beef sellers; it also impacts people who import poultry and mutton into the state. He continued by saying that the group had previously contacted the chief minister to request a formal investigation so that legitimate companies may operate without interference.
Since December 25, there have been no additional reported delays, and the market is currently running normally. But traders are still on edge, demanding more robust government regulations to stop any meddling and safeguard their business from abuse.
