Amid Heated Clash with Congress, Assam’s Bold Beef Ban in Public Sparks Controversy | Guwahati News
The BJP-led government in Assam, under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has implemented a ban on the consumption of beef in public spaces, including hotels, restaurants, and at social and religious gatherings. This decision comes on the heels of accusations from the Congress party, which claimed that the BJP had been distributing beef to win votes during the assembly by-election in the predominantly Muslim area of Samaguri. CM Sarma, who earlier suggested he would impose such a ban if Congress formally requested it, convened an online cabinet meeting from Delhi to enforce the prohibition with immediate effect. The move aims to enhance the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, which restricts the sale and purchase of cattle within a 5-kilometer radius of Hindu temples and Vaishnavite monasteries, as well as in predominantly Hindu, Jain, and Sikh areas, and regulates cattle transportation within the state.
Sarma revealed that the existing cattle preservation law did not previously cover the prohibition of beef consumption at community gatherings, leading to this amendment. The enforcement of this ban is intended to align with the state’s commitment to preserving cattle within its jurisdiction.
Reacting to the announcement, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi accused Sarma of employing diversionary tactics following a significant defeat for the BJP in the Jharkhand elections, where Sarma was one of the party’s co-incharges. Gogoi argued that the Assam CM’s actions are an attempt to distract from recent political setbacks.
The decision has stirred debate, with supporters viewing it as a measure to respect cultural and religious sentiments, while opponents critique it as politically motivated and potentially divisive. The implementation of this order will likely impact various public and business establishments across the state.
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/amid-spat-with-congress-assam-government-bans-beef-in-public-places/articleshow/115983576.cms
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Publish Date: 2024-12-05 00:56:00
