Siliguri: Jharkhand BJP leader Pratul Shah Deo has expressed his support for the Assam government’s decision to extend its ban on beef consumption to restaurants and public places, calling it a “positive step.”
Speaking on December 5, Deo reminded Congress that their leaders had previously called for such a ban during allegations of beef distribution in by-elections.
“Congress had demanded a ban on beef consumption, so now the Assam government has acted in the interest of the opposition,” Deo remarked, aligning the move with Congress’ earlier stance.
The announcement, made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on December 5, has drawn mixed reactions. While Deo praised it, Congress MLA Sherman Ali Ahmed strongly criticized the decision, accusing the state government of following the principles of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He stated, “The BJP party has been attacking our Constitution. The Indian Constitution guarantees every person the right to choose their food and attire. The government’s actions are against the Constitution and discriminatory towards Muslims, lower-caste Hindus, and other communities.”
CM Sarma’s statement clarified that the extension of the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, which had initially restricted cattle slaughter, would now include the prohibition of beef in public spaces like hotels and restaurants. The law, enacted in 2021, had already proven effective in limiting cattle slaughter, and this new step is part of a broader effort to curb beef consumption in the state.
Sarma also emphasized that the ban, which previously applied near temples, would now extend statewide. “From now on, beef will not be served in public places, hotels, or restaurants,” he confirmed.
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