The Assam government has announced a ban on the consumption and serving of beef in public places, including restaurants and hotels. The decision, which is an extension of the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, aims to respect cultural sensitivities, according to officials.
Supporting the move, Dilip Saikia, BJP MP from Darrang-Udalguri, emphasized that the decision is not communal but rooted in preserving Sanatana culture.
“Assam cabinet has decided to ban beef in public places. I support this decision. Cows are considered as a mother in the Sanatana culture. Beef is a restricted food in the Sanatana culture. We don’t object to its consumption in private but serving beef in public places as most people consider it inedible…This decision has no communal angle but has been made in the favour of the Sanatana culture of India,” Saikia told ANI.
Chief Minister’s Statement
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma elaborated on the government’s stance, stating that the Assam Cattle Preservation Act has already been effective in regulating cattle slaughter. This latest measure seeks to curb beef consumption in public spaces across the state.
“We had passed the law on prohibition of cattle slaughter three years ago, and it was quite successful, so now, in Assam, we have decided that beef will not be served in any restaurant or hotel and also it will not be served in any public function or public place,” Sarma said.
He added that the earlier restrictions were limited to areas near temples, but they have now been expanded statewide.
“Earlier our decision was to stop eating beef near temples but now we have expanded it to the entire state so you will not be able to eat it in any community place, public place, hotel or restaurant,” he added.
Cabinet Expansion Announcement
The Chief Minister also revealed plans for a cabinet expansion in Assam, scheduled for December 7.
Cultural and Social Implications
The decision has drawn mixed reactions, with supporters hailing it as a step toward respecting cultural traditions, while critics argue it may marginalize certain communities for whom beef is a staple.