Guwahati, July 2
In one of the largest statewide crackdowns in recent times, Assam Police have arrested 133 individuals for allegedly violating provisions of the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021. The arrests were made during coordinated raids on Tuesday across multiple districts in the state.
According to Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Akhilesh Kumar Singh, the police also seized over one tonne of suspected beef during the operations, which were carried out as part of a suo motu drive to enforce the law and prevent illegal cattle slaughter and sale.
The police-led initiative involved simultaneous inspections of 112 hotels, restaurants, and eateries suspected of engaging in unauthorised sale and distribution of beef. While beef consumption is not illegal in Assam, the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, restricts its slaughter and sale in specific areas to maintain communal harmony and respect cultural sentiments.
The law prohibits:
- The slaughter of cattle in regions with significant Hindu, Sikh, or Jain populations.
- The sale or transport of beef within a 5-kilometre radius of temples, Vaishnavite monasteries (sattras), and religious places.
“The objective of this operation is to uphold the provisions of the law, ensure that public sentiment is respected, and prevent activities that could potentially lead to social unrest,”
said IGP Akhilesh Kumar Singh.
“We have so far arrested 133 people and seized large quantities of beef. The drive is not over yet. Final figures will be updated once all raids are completed.”
Dozens of FIRs have been registered against the accused individuals under relevant sections of the Assam Cattle Preservation Act and other applicable laws. Legal action is being taken against both vendors and restaurant owners found guilty of violating the act.
Police officials confirmed that suspected beef samples have been sent for laboratory testing and confirmation. If the reports validate the seizure, charges under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and state-specific cattle laws will be framed accordingly.
Officials emphasized that the operation was not aimed at any particular community but rather focused on ensuring that everyone abides by the existing legal framework, especially concerning cattle-related activities.
The Assam Cattle Preservation Act 2021:
The Assam Cattle Preservation Act was enacted in 2021 with the goal of regulating cattle slaughter, transport, and sale across the state. The legislation replaced the earlier Assam Cattle Preservation Act of 1950, and includes stricter provisions that reflect current religious sensitivities and aims to prevent illegal cattle trafficking.
Under the act:
- Cattle can only be slaughtered with prior certification from a veterinary officer.
- Slaughter is banned in certain geographical zones and religiously sensitive areas.
- Transport of cattle without appropriate permits is a punishable offense.
The act has been the subject of ongoing debate, with some groups welcoming it as a necessary measure for cultural preservation, while others criticize it for potential misuse and alleged targeting.
State officials have reiterated that the ongoing enforcement is being carried out without bias, and that maintaining peace and communal harmony remains a top priority.
“We are committed to ensuring that all citizens follow the law. At the same time, we are careful not to disturb communal peace. These actions are taken based on intelligence and evidence, not identity,”
Singh added.
The police have also urged business owners and vendors to review their compliance status, especially those operating near temples and religious centers. Authorities warned that non-compliance will invite strict action, including arrest and permanent cancellation of licenses for repeat violations.
Public Reaction:
The crackdown has sparked discussion across social and political circles in Assam. While many citizens have lauded the police for upholding the law, civil rights organizations and minority representatives have urged authorities to maintain fairness and transparency in investigations.
Leaders from different communities have called for open dialogue and better awareness regarding the provisions of the cattle preservation act to prevent misunderstandings and conflict.
