Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday called for strict adherence to the state’s cattle preservation law and threatened action against defaulters.
Addressing a press conference, Biswa Sarma expressed concerns over recent incidents of alleged cow slaughter and beef consumption near religious places during Eid-ul-Zuha celebrations earlier this month.
He said such incidents were being seen as deliberate provocations and a threat to communal harmony.
“As per the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, the consumption or slaughter of cows is strictly prohibited within a five-kilometre radius of any temple or Namghar (prayer house). We have instructed the district administrations to enforce these provisions stringently,” he said.
The CM also referred to reports of cattle remains being found near places of worship, and reminded citizens that such acts could inflame tensions.
“This is not just a law and order issue, but one that concerns social peace. We are committed to taking action against anyone trying to create discord through such provocations,” Biswa Sarma said.
The Assam CM re-emphasised that the state’s priority was to ensure all communities observe their festivals peacefully without hurting others’ sentiments.
