Calcutta HC Backs Bengal Ban on Cattle Sacrifice Ahead of Eid

The Calcutta High Court has upheld the West Bengal government’s restrictions on animal slaughter ahead of Eid al-Adha (Bakrid), dismissing petitions that challenged the ban and sought religious exemptions. The decision has intensified political and social debate in the state, especially over the issue of cattle sacrifice during the festival. The controversy began after the West Bengal government issued a notification stating that only animals above 14 years of age or those permanently disabled due to injury, illness, or old age could be approved for sacrifice. The order also made veterinary fitness certificates mandatory for bulls, oxen, cows, calves, and buffaloes before slaughter. According to the government, the move was based on provisions of a 1950 law regulating animal slaughter in the state. However, several political leaders and petitioners argued that the rules directly interfere with Islamic religious practices associated with Bakrid. Among those opposing the order were TMC MP Mahua Moitra and TMC MLA Akhruzzaman, who approached the court seeking temporary relief before Eid celebrations. They claimed that the restrictions would not only affect religious customs but also negatively impact the rural economy and livestock trade linked to the festival season. During the hearing, senior advocate Shadan Farasat, appearing for the petitioners, argued that Islamic traditions require the sacrifice of healthy animals, not old or disabled ones. He contended that the government’s interpretation of the 1950 law effectively makes religious sacrifice impossible for many people observing Eid al-Adha. The petitioners requested the court to allow a temporary exemption from the restrictions during the festival period. The matter was heard by a division bench led by Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen. After considering the arguments, the court refused to stay the government notification and upheld the restrictions. The bench stated that the law did not provide grounds for a blanket religious exemption from animal slaughter regulations. At the same time, the court directed the West Bengal government to consider the petitioners’ request for a special exemption for Eid celebrations scheduled around May 27–28 and take a decision within 24 hours. The ruling has triggered fresh political reactions across Bengal, with supporters calling it a lawful enforcement measure while critics describe it as an attack on religious freedom and traditional practices linked to Bakrid.