Will the Maha government introduce a law to combat cow smuggling?
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Synopsis
Maharashtra's government moves to tackle cow smuggling with a new law, imposing strict measures under MCOCA for repeat offenders. Minister Pankaj Bhoyar reveals alarming statistics on arrests and seizures related to cattle trafficking. The proposed legislation aims to strengthen existing laws and ensure stricter penalties for those involved in this illegal trade.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra government to introduce new law against cow smuggling.
- Repeat offenders will face MCOCA charges.
- 2,849 cases registered from 2022 to 2025.
- 4,677 individuals arrested related to cow trafficking.
- 57,000 kg of beef confiscated in a recent operation.
Mumbai, July 14 (NationPress) The Maharashtra Minister of State for Home (Rural), Pankaj Bhoyar, declared on Monday that the state government is set to propose new legislation aimed at curbing cow smuggling. Individuals found guilty of repeated offenses will face repercussions under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).
This announcement was made during a discussion regarding a calling attention motion initiated by BJP member Shrikant Bharatiya, alongside a sub-question from Shiv Sena-UBT member Anil Parab.
Minister Bhoyar revealed that from 2022 to 2025, a total of 2,849 cases have been filed regarding the slaughter, transportation, and sale of bovine animals, leading to the arrest of 4,677 individuals.
Furthermore, approximately 1,724 tonnes of meat have been confiscated.
“Those arrested for cow slaughter, smuggling, and sale for the third time will face MCOCA charges,” he stated.
He also mentioned that a new law to tackle cow smuggling is anticipated to be passed in the next legislative session.
Additionally, Pankaj Bhoyar indicated that a special investigation team (SIT) will be looking into a case involving the transportation of around 57,000 kg of beef in two large containers located in Kusgaon, Pune.
Initial findings suggest that the company Asian Foods Micro Pvt. Ltd. is implicated in this transportation. Since this company is based in Hyderabad, the state government has requested the central government to revoke the license granted to them through APEDA.
“Two owners of the company are implicated in this case. One has been arrested and granted bail, and efforts are underway to apprehend the other,” he noted.
BJP member Shrikant Bharatiya pointed out that social activists and gaurakshaks (cow protectors) are also facing charges.
The minister stated that if gaurakshaks are charged, the cases will be reviewed, and the government will contemplate withdrawing such cases.
Point of View
I believe that the Maharashtra government's proposed law to address cow smuggling is a necessary step towards safeguarding animal rights and ensuring justice. With alarming statistics highlighting the extent of the issue, this initiative demonstrates a commitment to tackling organized crime while also considering the implications for social activists involved in cow protection.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new law proposed by Maharashtra government?
The Maharashtra government plans to introduce a legislation aimed at curbing cow smuggling, with strong penalties for repeat offenders under MCOCA.
What statistics were shared by Minister Pankaj Bhoyar?
Minister Bhoyar revealed that from 2022 to 2025, 2,849 cases were filed, leading to 4,677 arrests and the seizure of 1,724 tonnes of meat.
What actions will be taken against repeat offenders?
Repeat offenders involved in cow slaughter, smuggling, and sale will face charges under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).
What is the role of the special investigation team (SIT)?
The SIT will investigate a case involving the transportation of approximately 57,000 kg of beef in Pune, linked to Asian Foods Micro Pvt. Ltd.
How will cases against gaurakshaks be handled?
The government will review cases against gaurakshaks and may consider withdrawing charges if deemed appropriate.
