India, May 22 -- In a move to curb illegal cattle trade and unauthorised slaughterhouses, the Maharashtra government has directed the authorities to invoke the provisions of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against individuals, gangs or organisations involved in cattle-smuggling.

"The concerned police machinery shall conduct investigations in accordance with prevailing laws and take appropriate action under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act against individuals, gangs or organisations repeatedly involved in organised cattle smuggling in violation of existing laws and regulations," states the circular issued on Thursday.

At a time when preparations for Eid-ul-Adha are underway, when Muslims traditionally...