Assam CM warns of strict action on beef law violations near temples, namghars

Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed deep concern over the reported violations of the Assam Cattle Preservation Act during Eid-ul-Zuha, particularly the consumption and sale of beef within 5 km of temples and Namghars — a move he described as a “very serious matter.”

Addressing a press conference, CM Sarma stated, “As per law, slaughter, sale or consumption of beef is strictly prohibited within a 5-kilometre radius of any temple or Namghar. Despite this, there were multiple violations during this Eid, which could have been avoided if the provisions of the law were enforced and made known to the public.”

He cited incidents in Dhubri, Lakhipur, Lakhimpur, Goalpara, and Hojai, all of which occurred in areas where beef was consumed during the festival and within the legally restricted zones.

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“These incidents didn’t occur randomly. They were concentrated in sensitive areas where this particular provision of the Cattle Preservation Act was not followed. If awareness and enforcement had been better, such unrest might have been prevented,” the Chief Minister asserted.

Dr. Sarma has now instructed all Deputy Commissioners (DCs) across the state to strictly implement the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, especially the clause prohibiting beef-related activities near religious institutions. “Strict action will be taken under the Act going forward,” he warned.

The Assam Cattle Preservation Act was amended in recent years to strengthen provisions against illegal slaughter and sale of cattle, with specific zones of prohibition around Hindu religious sites. 

The CM’s renewed directive comes amid growing concerns over communal harmony in sensitive districts during religious festivals.