Strict Measures Against Illegal Cattle Slaughter in Assam

Government's Response to Illegal Cattle Slaughter

Guwahati, June 8: The Assam government has pledged to take stringent action against individuals involved in unlawful cattle slaughter and the reported disposal of cattle remains throughout the state, with 16 arrests made to date.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the situation on Sunday through social media, highlighting troubling reports from various regions during Eid-ul-Zuha.

“While our Constitution guarantees the right to religious freedom, it also emphasizes the importance of law and public order,” he stated, reiterating the government's dedication to upholding the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021.

As per the Chief Minister, nine arrests occurred in Cachar district and seven in Sribhumi, with five illegal slaughter locations identified in these areas.

“We will take strict measures against all offenders, regardless of their faith or background,” he emphasized, asserting the government's commitment to fostering communal harmony while rejecting lawlessness and cruelty.

The Chief Minister also mentioned locations where cattle remains were reportedly found, including Dhubri, Hojai, Sribhumi (Bagargool), and near Cotton University in Guwahati.

According to the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, the slaughter, sale, and consumption of beef are banned within a 5-kilometre radius of temples, monasteries, and in areas predominantly inhabited by communities that do not consume beef.

The Act further restricts the sale and consumption of beef in restaurants, hotels, public gatherings, and community events.

Meanwhile, tensions arose in the Cotton University vicinity on Sunday following the discovery of suspected cow meat remains near Cotton Hostel Road on June 7.

Police confirmed the incident, stating that an investigation is underway to identify the culprits.

“Yes, the incident occurred yesterday, and the situation remained tense until late at night. Protests are ongoing outside the university, and we are actively investigating the matter,” a police official reported.

Authorities are currently examining crucial aspects of the case, including the source of the banned meat and the identities of those responsible for discarding it near the university.