Assam: BTR cattle markets barred from selling cattle outside region amid Bangladesh smuggling allegations

The Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) has imposed stricter rules on cattle markets in Gossaigaon and Parbatjhora subdivisions following allegations that cattle are being transported to Bangladesh through markets in the region.

The decision was taken at an Executive Council (EC) meeting of the BTC chaired by Chief Executive Member Hagrama Mohilary on Saturday.

Under the new rules, cattle purchased at markets within the BTC area can be sold only within the territorial jurisdiction of the council. Cattle market committees will be required to ensure compliance with the directive.

The BTC has warned that cattle markets whose committees fail to follow the new rules could be shut down.

The EC meeting also decided to review the appointments of secretaries serving in 420 Village Councils Development Committees (VCDC) across the BTC. According to the council, around 390 secretaries are expected to be appointed within the next two to three days following the review.

The council also said the review process for appointments in the BTC Forest Department is currently underway.

In another decision, the BTC resolved that no symbols or emblems of political parties or organisations would be displayed at the main entrance of the BTC Secretariat. The decision includes removing the symbols of organisations, including the All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU), from the official entrance.

The decisions were taken as part of efforts to strengthen administrative functioning and regulate activities within the BTC region.