Assam Cattle Preservation Bill 2021 - No Beef Trade Within 5 Km Radius Of Temples

The new cattle preservation bill introduced in Assam Legislative Assembly on Monday by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma prevents the sale and purchase of beef or beef products in areas “predominantly inhabited by Hindu, Jain, Sikh and other non beef-eating communities”, or “within a radius of 5 km” of any temple or sattra (Vaishnavite monasteries).

The Bill if passed would replace Assam Cattle Preservation Act 1950 which according to Sarma lacked legal provisions to regulate slaughter, consumption and transportation of cattle.

Moreover, it makes fitness certificates mandatory for inter and intra-state transport of all cattle including buffaloes. As per the 1950 Act, cattle slaughter is allowed only for cattle “over 14 years of age” or those “unfit for work” in Assam subject to a “fit-for-slaughter certificate” issued by a local veterinary officer after examination. Under the new law, the same approval certificate for all cattle is required however, it adds that a cow cannot be slaughtered regardless of age.

The proposed law also gives police officers (not below the rank of sub-inspector), or any other person authorized by the government, the power to “enter and inspect any premises” within their jurisdiction. In the 1950 Act, this power was given only to the Veterinary Officer and Certifying Officer, appointed by the government.

Any inability to follow these rules would amount 3-8 years in jail and a fine of 3-5 lakhs(or both). The proposed legislation, however, allows for certain exemptions it won’t apply to “religious occasions” when “slaughter of cattle, not being a cow or heifer or calf” is allowed. The government also may establish gaushalas (shelters) to take care of recovered

Reacting to the 5 km rule in the Bill, Leader of the Opposition Debabrata Saikia of Congress said the bill has problematic and ambiguous rules which may escalate communal tensions. They are getting it examined by legal experts and clearly needs amendments, he added.

Read Also - Meghalaya Is Concerned Over Assam's Move To Implement A Cow Protection Law