The government of West Bengal has made stricter guidelines relating to cattle slaughter, requiring veterinary certificates to be issued declaring an animal fit for slaughter.
Under the new guidelines, animals like cows, bulls, bullocks, buffaloes, calves and buffalo calves have to be approved by municipal authorities and the government's veterinary surgeons for slaughter. The government stated that the guidelines were formulated to help combat illegal slaughter and regulate cattle slaughtering activities.
It has been clarified under the guidelines that cattle will be eligible for slaughter only if the cattle are over 14 years old and are not useful for agriculture or breeding. This is applicable even in case the animal is irreparably injured or diseased.
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The approval process requires joint clearance from the Chairman of a Municipality or the Sabhapati of a Panchayat Samiti along with a government veterinary surgeon. Officials approving the request must record the reasons for granting certification in writing. Authorities have also allowed applicants to appeal before the state government within 15 days if permission is denied.
Slaughter restricted to authorised facilities
The state government has further clarified that slaughter can only take place at officially approved slaughterhouses operated by municipalities or authorised civic facilities.
A cowherd holding an umbrella herds cows during the afternoon hours ANI Slaughter in open or public spaces has been strictly prohibited under the revised order. Officials said permission would only be granted if both the veterinary authority and civic body agree that the animal satisfies the legal requirements.
The move comes amid continued administrative focus on illegal cattle slaughter, unauthorised cattle markets and smuggling networks operating across parts of the state.
Jail term and fine for violations
The government has also outlined penalties for violations under the new framework. Anyone found violating the rules may face imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of up to Rs 1,000, or both. Officials have classified offences under the order as cognizable, allowing police to take immediate action without requiring prior court approval.
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The latest notification follows earlier directives issued to law enforcement agencies instructing them to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards illegal slaughterhouses and cattle smuggling operations.
State authorities said action against unauthorised slaughterhouses and illegal cattle markets will continue, while licensed and legally compliant businesses involved in cattle trade will be allowed to operate without disruption.
