Action to be taken for illegal killing of cows, calves, camels during ‘Bakrid’ in Assam

July 8: The Assam government ahead of the festival of ‘Eid al-Adha’ or ‘Bakriid’ has issued strict instructions to all the districts to check “illegal slaughtering of cows or calves” across the state. In a letter issued to all the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police by the Joint Secretary to the Government of Assam, Home & Political Department on 4 July, 2022 it was stated that they ought to ensure compliance with the Animal Welfare Board of India’s Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) regarding stopping of illegal killing or sacrifice of cows, calves, camels, and other animals during the occasion of ‘Bakrid’.

This letter also mentioned that strict action should be taken against the perpetrators for violating the regulations. It needs mention here that the country is going to celebrate ‘Eid al-Adha’ or ‘Bakriid’ on 10 July, 2022.

‘The Assam cattle Preservation (Amendment) Act, 2021’ banned cattle slaughter and sale of beef in areas where Hindus, Jains and Sikhs are in a majority or within a five- kilometre radius of a temple or satra (Vaishnavite monasteries) or any other institution, as may be prescribed by the authorities. According to the law, cows and their calves cannot be killed. Cattle aged above 14 years are otherwise permitted to be slaughtered. Violations of the provisions of the Bill could lead to imprisonment for three to eight years and fine between ₹3 lakh and ₹5 lakh.

According to the amendment, the state government will be allowed to auction vehicles seized while transporting cattle illegally and inter-district transportation of cattle for agricultural and animal husbandry purposes, except in 8 districts which border Bangladesh and Bhutan. The present law restricts inter-district transportation without permits issued by competent authority. It also bans transport of cattle from other states through Assam to places outside the state.