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Calcutta HC disposes pleas against Bengal govt's Eid cattle slaughter restrictions (Img: Internet)
Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court on Thursday disposed of petitions challenging the West Bengal government’s restrictions on animal slaughter ahead of Eid celebrations expected later this month.
The petitions had sought permission for the slaughter of animals such as buffaloes and oxen during Eid, arguing that religious practices associated with qurbani should be allowed under special provisions.
While the court declined to grant any immediate exemption under existing laws, it directed the state government to examine whether temporary relaxations may be required for the upcoming festival. The court asked authorities to take a decision within 24 hours.
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The controversy began after the West Bengal government issued fresh instructions for the strict implementation of the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950. Under the revised directions, slaughter of animals in public places has been prohibited and animals can only be slaughtered after obtaining a mandatory fitness certificate from authorised officials.
The notification, issued by the state Home and Hill Affairs Department, referred to earlier court directions related to regulating slaughter practices and maintaining public order. Officials said the measures were intended to ensure compliance with existing legal and health standards.
Petitioners argued that the restrictions could interfere with religious customs linked to Eid-ul-Adha, during which animal sacrifice holds special significance for many Muslims. They requested that the government allow temporary exemptions for specific categories of animals during the festival period.
However, the High Court refrained from making any immediate legal changes and instead asked the state administration to independently review the matter and take an appropriate decision.
The issue has also sparked political reactions in the state. Aam Janata Unnayan Party chief Humayun Kabir criticised the restrictions and said the government should not interfere in religious practices connected with qurbani. He argued that the tradition has existed for centuries and questioned the government’s approach toward regulating animal slaughter during religious occasions.
At the same time, supporters of the restrictions said regulations were necessary to ensure public hygiene, lawful slaughter practices and administrative control during large-scale festival activities.
The state government is now expected to respond quickly, as Eid celebrations are likely to begin on May 27 or 28 depending on the moon sighting.
