In a significant move, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday announced a statewide ban on the serving and consumption of beef in restaurants, hotels, and public places. The decision was taken during a state cabinet meeting, with plans to amend the Assam Cattle Preservation Act of 2021 to incorporate the new provisions.
The Chief Minister stated, “We had earlier introduced a bill in Assam to protect cows and we have been successful. Going further, we have decided that beef will not be served in any hotels or restaurants in the state. It will also not be served during any public function or in any public place.”
Beef Consumption Regulations in Assam
While beef consumption is not entirely illegal in the state, the Assam Cattle Preservation Act of 2021 already regulates the slaughter, transportation, and sale of cattle and beef products. The legislation prohibits cattle slaughter and beef sales in areas where Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs form a majority and within a five-kilometer radius of temples or Vaishnavite monasteries (satra).
The newly announced measures aim to expand these restrictions to cover all public spaces, signaling a broader enforcement of the state government’s cattle protection policies.
ALSO READ: Devendra Fadnavis to take oath as Maharashtra CM for the 3rd time today; Eknath Shinde, Ajit Pawar as his deputies
Opposition Criticism
The opposition All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) has criticized the move, accusing the government of diverting attention from pressing issues such as unemployment, education, and healthcare.
“The state government has failed to carry out development works… it has failed to tackle unemployment. There are major issues in the education and health sector… they are simply diverting the people’s attention through such decisions,” said AIUDF legislator Aminul Islam.
Background of the Assam Cattle Preservation Act
The Assam Cattle Preservation Bill was passed in August 2021 through a voice vote, despite a walkout by the Opposition, which demanded a more detailed discussion. The law introduced stringent measures, including a ban on cattle slaughter in certain areas and severe penalties for violations.
Under the current provisions, offenders could face imprisonment ranging from three to eight years and fines between Rs 3 lakh and Rs 5 lakh.
Implications and Reactions
The decision has sparked debate across the state, with supporters hailing it as a necessary step to uphold cultural and religious sentiments, while critics argue it infringes on personal freedoms and livelihoods.
As Assam prepares to implement these new restrictions, the move is likely to have social and economic implications, particularly for communities involved in the beef trade. It remains to be seen how the amended law will address these challenges and whether it will face further legal or public opposition.
