Gokul Clarifies Halal Certification Exists Since 2018 Amid Political Controversy
Gokul Clarifies Halal Certification Exists Since 2018 Amid Political Controversy
Kolhapur, May 28, 2026: A political controversy has erupted in Maharashtra over the Halal certification granted to products of the famous Gokul Milk Union in Kolhapur. The issue has gained momentum ahead of the upcoming local body elections and the Gokul dairy elections scheduled for September. Minister Hasan Mushrif and the Gokul administration have clarified that the certification is a commercial requirement necessary for exports to Gulf and Islamic countries.
The controversy began after it was revealed that Gokul’s milk, ghee, butter, and milk powder products had received Halal certification from Mumbai-based Juhf Certification Private Limited (Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind Halal Trust). The certification is valid until March 18, 2028. The move triggered criticism from some consumers and Hindutva organisations, especially on social media.
Critics questioned why purely vegetarian dairy products required Halal certification. Opposition groups also alleged that the decision was taken during the tenure of Sajid Mushrif, son of Maharashtra Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif, who serves as the chairman of Gokul Dairy. The issue has now taken a political turn, with opposition leaders attempting to link it to religious sentiments ahead of the elections.
Responding to the growing criticism, the Gokul administration stated that Halal certification has no connection with religious promotion and is purely an international trade requirement. According to the administration, Gokul exports large quantities of ghee, butter, and milk powder to countries including Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Turkey, Jordan, Syria, and Bangladesh. These countries require Halal certification for the import of food products as part of their official trade regulations.
The administration further clarified that the certification functions like FSSAI or ISO standards and only confirms that the products do not contain prohibited or meat-based ingredients. Gokul also pointed out that major dairy brands such as Amul and Mother Dairy follow similar export standards. The dairy union stated that export growth helps generate foreign exchange and directly benefits rural farmers by ensuring better milk procurement prices.
Minister Hasan Mushrif also dismissed the allegations, saying the certification has existed since 2022 and is not a new decision. He accused opposition parties of reviving an old issue to create confusion among the public ahead of the Gokul elections. The administration appealed to citizens to view the matter from an economic and business perspective rather than a religious one.
