Kolkata, May 17 -- Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has written to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, urging intervention over concerns arising from the West Bengal government's new guidelines on cattle slaughter and meat sale ahead of Eid-ul-Adha.
The appeal comes amid reports of unease in minority-dominated districts, particularly Murshidabad, over the implementation of fresh restrictions under the state's enforcement of provisions of the 1950 animal husbandry law.
The rules prohibit the slaughter of cattle without administrative approval, ban the slaughter of cattle under 14 years of age, and require written permission from local authorities or the Animal Resources Development Department for meat cutting and sale.
In his letter, Adhir said the notification issued on May 13 had led to "confusion and anxiety" among sections of society.
Stressing Bengal's long tradition of communal harmony and religious coexistence, he said every community must be allowed to observe its religious customs with dignity and without fear.
Citing Murshidabad as an example, the Congress leader said the state government should proactively address the concerns of residents in minority-dominated areas.
He suggested that district administrations designate places where people can peacefully practice their religion in accordance with tradition and faith.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.