Assam: Illegal Poultry Trafficking Uncovered in Dhubri, Sparks Concerns Over Powerful Nexus

DHUBRI: The Assam government’s strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for poultry transportation are facing growing investigation, with allegations of a powerful nexus in Dhubri and Kokrajhar facilitating illegal poultry trafficking.

Despite strict regulations, the illegal poultry trade continues to thrive in the region, allegedly protected by influential figures, including politicians.

Live poultry can only be transported by road or rail through Assam from other states under strict compliance with the Transport of Animals Rules, 1978; the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960; and the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, according to the SOPs.

Transporters must also adhere to biosecurity guidelines outlined in Assam’s National Action Plan (NAP). Any vehicles found violating these regulations are supposed to be intercepted and sent back to Assam’s western borders with West Bengal.

However, reports indicate that broiler-loaded pickup vans are illegally entering Assam through Dhubri, bypassing these regulations with the help of a powerful network.

A whistleblower familiar with the poultry transport industry claims, "The government introduced the SOPs to ensure compliance and biosecurity, but on the ground, the illegal trade is flourishing. It seems to be shielded by higher-ups."

"This isn't just about poultry; it's about fairness and accountability. The government cannot enforce strict rules on one hand and allow illegal activities to flourish on the other," said a local poultry farmer.

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