TMC MP Mahua Moitra Appears In Calcutta High Court, Challenges WB Govt's Restriction On Cattle Slaughter Ahead Of Eid-Al-Adha
The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday heard a plea challenging the West Bengal government's recent notification regulating the slaughter of cattle ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, with the petitioners, including TMC MP Mahua Moitra, contending that the restrictions would adversely impact religious practices and the rural economy.
The matter was moved before a division bench of Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen by Trinamool Congress MLA Akhruzzaman. TMC MP Mahua Moitra also appeared during the hearing.
The challenge concerns a state notification mandating a “fit certificate” before slaughter of bulls, bullocks, cows, calves and buffaloes. Under the notification, only animals above 14 years of age or those permanently incapacitated due to injury, deformity, old age or incurable disease would qualify for slaughter after certification by the authorities.
Appearing before the Court, Moitra submitted that the notification would financially affect economically weaker sections dependent on cattle rearing and sale. The petitioners also argued that the restrictions interfered with the practice of qurbani associated with Eid al-Adha.
The division bench, however, adjourned the matter after noting that copies of the petition had not been served upon the State and Central governments. The Court directed that the matter be listed as the first case for hearing on Thursday morning.
The notification, issued earlier this month under the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950, also requires veterinary assessment regarding the age and physical condition of cattle before slaughter permission is granted.