Amid growing concerns over West Bengal’s recently enforced animal slaughter regulations ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, Indian Secular Front leader Naushad Siddiqui has appealed to the state government to simplify the certification process for cattle slaughter and prevent hardship for traders and poor families.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, the Bhangar MLA said the implementation of the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950, has created uncertainty among people involved in the seasonal cattle trade. Siddiqui claimed that both Hindu and Muslim communities dependent on cattle trading are facing financial distress because of delays and difficulties in obtaining mandatory fitness certificates for animals.
Under the guidelines being strictly enforced this year, only cattle above 14 years of age or animals declared permanently unfit for work can be slaughtered legally. The law also requires a joint certification from a government veterinary officer and local civic authorities before slaughter. Public slaughter has additionally been prohibited, with sacrifices allowed only at designated locations.
Siddiqui urged the state government to deploy veterinary doctors at panchayat offices until Eid so that certificates can be issued smoothly and legally. He argued that many low-income traders, transport workers, and farmers rely heavily on the Eid season for their livelihood and are now suffering losses because of administrative delays.
The controversy has also affected cattle markets across parts of Bengal. Reports indicate that several cow markets have witnessed a sharp decline in activity amid confusion over the new rules and fears of legal action. In some areas, traders have shifted towards selling goats and sheep instead.
Meanwhile, the state government has defended the move, saying the regulations are aimed at preventing illegal cattle slaughter and smuggling, and are not intended to target any religious community.