Assam: BJP Welcomes Ban on Public Consumption of Beef

Staff Reporter

GUWAHATI: The Assam Cabinet decision to ban the public consumption of beef marks a historic and significant step towards preserving the state’s cultural and religious sentiments, said the Bharatiya Janata Party, Assam Pradesh.

The move to regulate the public consumption of beef in restaurants, hotels, and public places is expected to strengthen Assam’s rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions. It also underscores the government’s emphasis on ensuring unity and respect for the sensitivities of all communities, particularly the majority Hindu population of the state.

Commenting on this, BJP Assam Pradesh’s senior spokesperson Subhash Dutta praised the Assam Government for taking a bold and necessary step to safeguard the state’s cultural fabric.

“Beef consumption in hotels, restaurants, festivals, and public events has been prohibited. Serving beef at religious, social, and other public gatherings will not be allowed, and this measure will strengthen the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021,” Dutta added.

In 1958, the Supreme Court of India upheld Bihar’s regulations banning beef consumption, emphasizing the importance of cattle preservation for agricultural economy. Following this, other states also introduced similar measures. However, laws related to cattle slaughter are under the jurisdiction of state governments, meaning each state has its own rules. Some states, such as Maharashtra and Gujarat, have imposed a complete ban on cattle slaughter.

Article 25 of the Indian Constitution grants the right to freedom of religion but subjects it to “public order, morality, and health.” This means that when religious practices conflict with public interest, the state has the authority to impose reasonable restrictions. The BJP emphasizes that this law is not only about respecting religious practices but also about promoting broader values of public order, morality, and health as outlined in the Indian Constitution. With this ban coming into effect, Assam will set an example for other states by encouraging peaceful coexistence while maintaining respect for local customs and traditions.

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