The PIL challenges the West Bengal government’s move to enforce the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950, alleging that the restrictions may affect ritual livestock sacrifice, religious freedom, livelihood, food choice and Bengal’s culinary diversity.
CPI(ML) Liberation Moves Calcutta High Court Against Animal Slaughter Law Enforcement
The West Bengal unit of the Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation has moved the Calcutta High Court. The party seeks urgent intervention against the State government’s decision to enforce the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950. According to the party, the move could restrict ritual livestock sacrifice.
A Division Bench of Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen is likely to hear the matter soon.
PIL Challenges Enforcement Of 1950 Law
The party filed the case as a public interest litigation (PIL). It challenged the State government’s decision to enforce the 1950 law.
According to reports, the government announced new controls on the slaughter of cows and buffaloes. Under the notification, a veterinarian must first certify the animal as fit for slaughter.
The notification also states that authorities may allow slaughter only if the animal is permanently incapacitated or above 14 years of age.
Petitioners Oppose Restrictions
In its statement, the CPI(ML) Liberation described the law as outdated. The party also claimed that the government wants to impose harsh restrictions through the law.
Further, the petitioners argued that the restrictions could interfere with ritual livestock sacrifice. They also warned that the move could affect religious rights and livelihoods.
Religious Freedom And Livelihood Concerns
The PIL states that the restrictions could violate the religious freedoms of the Muslim community.
In addition, the petitioners claimed that the move could hurt farmers and cattle traders. According to them, many people involved in the cattle trade belong to the Hindu community.
The plea also raised concerns about food choice and West Bengal’s culinary diversity.
Petitioners Cite Constitutional Rights
The petitioners argued that the government’s move affects several constitutional rights. These include the right to religious practice, the right to livelihood and freedom of food choice.
Moreover, the party described the move as an attack on religious freedom, food choice and the livelihoods of farmers engaged in cattle trade.
Background Of Government Notice
Reports state that the West Bengal Government recently issued a public notice on the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950. The notice reportedly followed directions from the Calcutta High Court in pending cases related to illegal slaughter practices.
Meanwhile, the fresh PIL has brought the issue before the High Court from the perspective of religious practice, livelihood and food choice.
Matter Yet To Be Decided
The Division Bench led by Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen is expected to hear the matter shortly.
However, the Calcutta High Court has not passed any final order on the PIL so far.
