GUWAHATI: The Assam government has announced a complete ban on the serving and consumption of beef in hotels, restaurants, and public spaces across the state. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made the announcement on Wednesday, following a Cabinet decision to amend the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, to include stricter provisions.

Key Highlights of the Decision

Statewide Ban: The new provisions extend the existing restrictions on beef consumption, which previously applied only within a 5-km radius of temples and areas predominantly inhabited by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs.

No Beef in Public Places: Serving and consuming beef in hotels, restaurants, community functions, and public areas is now prohibited across Assam.

Stricter Enforcement: The government aims to ensure public consumption of beef is entirely curbed to address concerns of social harmony and cultural sensitivities.

Backdrop of the Decision

The ban comes amidst a political controversy where Congress and BJP leaders accused each other of distributing beef to influence voters in the Muslim-dominated Samaguri Assembly constituency. The issue gained traction after state Congress president Bhupen Kumar Borah and Dhubri MP Rakibul Hussain raised concerns about beef distribution during elections.

Responding to these allegations, Chief Minister Sarma remarked: "If state Congress leaders believe beef consumption is wrong, they should officially request a statewide ban. This decision reflects our commitment to maintaining cultural harmony."

Historical Context

Under the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, cattle slaughter and the sale of beef were already restricted in areas where non-beef-consuming communities form the majority or near places of worship. The latest amendments now enforce a broader ban on public consumption.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions. While some groups see it as a move to uphold cultural harmony, others view it as an infringement on dietary freedoms. Enforcement of the new rules is expected to be closely monitored, with significant implications for restaurants and communities across the state.

The Assam government maintains that the ban aims to address community sensitivities and prevent any misuse of beef-related practices for political gains.