Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma led government has tabled Assam Cattle Preservation Bill 2021 in state Assembly to regulate slaughter, consumption and transportation of cattle.

Taking to Twitter to Inform about the introduction of the bill in the state Assembly, CM Sarma said, "Cattle are revered in our society from time immemorial. Respecting our deep-rooted belief system and agricultural necessity, we've tabled Assam Cattle Preservation Bill, 2021 in Assembly to regulate slaughter, consumption and transportation of cattle,".

The bill, among other things, proposes to ban sale of beef and beef products in areas which are "predominatly inhabited by Hindu, Jain and Sikh and other non-beef eating communities".

It further proposes to ban selling of beef and beef products within "5 Kms of any temple, satra, or other religious institutions belonging to Hindu religion or any other institution or area".

The bill also proposes ban on the slaughter of cattle without a certificate from competent authority.

Besides, the transportation of cattle within Assam or outside the state without a valid permit will also be prohibited.

However, the cattle may be allowed to be transported for bonafide agricultural or animal husbandry purposes. Further, no permission will be required for transporting cattle to and from registered Animal Market for the purpose of purchase and sale within the district, according to the bill.

The bill also proposes setting up of 'Gaushalas' for taking care of cattle.

The penalties proposed for offences under the bill include imprisonment ranging from a minimum three years to eight years with fine not less than 3 lakh rupees and may extend to 5 lakh rupees.