Stricter animal slaughter in West Bengal, political discussions begin on new restrictions

The newly elected BJP government in West Bengal has imposed new and stricter restrictions on animal slaughter. According to the new guidelines, all types of animal slaughter, including cows, have been completely banned in the state. After this decision, extensive discussions have started in the political and social arena across the state.

According to the new rules, cows, bulls, buffaloes or calves cannot be slaughtered without a government permit or fitness certificate. In addition, the age of the animal for slaughter must be more than 14 years and it must be unfit for breeding or agricultural work. Special permission may also be given in the case of animals that are permanently disabled due to age-related weakness, serious injury or incurable disease.

The joint signature of the chairman of the concerned municipality or president of the panchayat samiti and the government veterinarian has been made mandatory for issuing the certificate. If any application is rejected, the person concerned can appeal to the state government within 15 days. At the same time, the permitted animals will have to be slaughtered only in designated slaughterhouses or places designated by the administration.

The new law provides for a maximum punishment of six months imprisonment, a fine of Rs 1,000 or both for violators. Slaughtering animals in open places or public places will be considered a cognizable offence. According to political analysts, this move by the new government after the assembly elections may give rise to new controversies in the politics of the state.