The Assam cabinet has taken a decisive step to strengthen its stance on cattle protection by imposing a statewide ban on serving and consumption of beef in public spaces, including restaurants, hotels, festivals, and other gatherings. The announcement was made on Wednesday by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, marking a significant extension of the Assam Cattle Preservation Act of 2021.

This legislation, which already regulated the transportation, slaughter, and sale of cattle, now prohibits beef consumption in religious, social, and public functions. Chief Minister Sarma emphasized that this decision aligns with the state’s cultural ethos and religious values, ensuring stricter enforcement of the 2021 law.

Key Features of the Assam Cattle Preservation Act 2021

The Assam Cattle Preservation Act initially targeted the slaughter of cows, permitting the slaughter of other cattle like bulls, bullocks, and buffaloes only under stringent conditions. These include the cattle being over 14 years of age or permanently incapacitated due to injury or deformity. The act also regulated the transportation and sale of beef in specified areas and allowed authorities to seize offending cattle and vehicles, which would be forfeited to the state government upon conviction.

New Provisions to Strengthen the Act

With the new provisions, the state government has:

• Prohibited serving and consumption of beef in hotels, restaurants, and public events.
• Expanded restrictions to cover festivals, community gatherings, and areas within a five-kilometer radius of temples or satras (Vaishnavite monasteries).
• Clarified that while beef consumption is not outright illegal, its availability and public consumption are tightly regulated.

Political and Social Context

The announcement follows criticism directed at the ruling BJP by opposition parties. Earlier this week, Congress alleged that the BJP had distributed beef to gain electoral support in Muslim-majority regions, such as Samaguri. Responding to these accusations, Sarma reiterated the government's commitment to preserving Assam’s cultural heritage and challenged Congress to formally seek a statewide beef ban if they were serious about their claims.

Sarma also highlighted how the opposition’s allegations are politically motivated and do not align with the BJP’s cultural stance. By reinforcing the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, the government aims to prevent actions that might offend the religious sentiments of communities such as Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains.

The Broader Impact

This decision has sparked debates across various sections of society. While proponents of the law applaud its emphasis on protecting religious sentiments and cultural heritage, critics argue that it could adversely impact livelihoods, especially in communities where beef consumption is common.

The ban is seen as a continuation of the BJP’s broader agenda to uphold cow protection laws across its governed states. It also underscores the Assam government’s resolve to address cultural and religious concerns with legislative measures.

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