Assam: Himanta Sarma Government Bans Consumption Of Beef In Hotels, Restaurants, And Public Places

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a statewide ban on serving and consuming beef in "restaurants, hotels, and public places" on Wednesday (4 December).

The decision was reportedly finalised during a state cabinet meeting, with amendments to the existing law being planned to incorporate these new provisions.

While beef consumption itself is not illegal in Assam, it is regulated under "The Assam Cattle Preservation Act of 2021," which governs the transportation, slaughter, and sale of cattle and beef products in the state. 

Highlighting the state's previous steps, Sarma said, "We had earlier introduced a bill in Assam to protect cows, and we have been successful."

Expanding on this initiative, the Chief Minister stated, "Going further, we have decided that beef will not be served in any hotels or restaurants in the state. It will also not be served during any public function or in any public place."

"Earlier, we had decided to place the curbs within a five-kilometre radius of a temple, but now, we have decided to expand it to other areas," Sarma added.

However, the move has faced criticism from the opposition AIUDF, which accused the government of using this decision to distract from pressing issues in Assam's education and health sectors.

Violations of the Act could result in imprisonment of three to eight years and fines ranging between Rs 3 lakh and Rs 5 lakh.

Also Read: Nepal Signs BRI Cooperation Framework With China During PM Oli's Beijing Visit—What You Need To Know