Odisha Government Plans Stricter Legislation to Prevent Cow Slaughter
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Bhubaneswar, Dec 5 (NationPress) A day after Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared a complete prohibition on public consumption of beef in the North-Eastern region, Odisha's Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan indicated on Thursday that the state government is contemplating the introduction of more stringent legislation aimed at preventing cow slaughter in Odisha.
Harichandan stated while addressing the press, "We will soon enact tougher laws concerning the prevention of cow slaughter. The government will make a decision on this matter shortly."
In addition, Gokulananda Mallik, the minister for Fisheries & Animal Resources Development, disclosed on Thursday that the Odisha government has established a committee tasked with exploring measures to protect cows, enhance the cattle population, and curb illegal cattle trafficking and slaughtering activities within the state.
Mallik further revealed that the administration is preparing to impose severe penalties on individuals involved in the unlawful transportation and slaughtering of cattle.
He emphasized the initiatives undertaken by the state government to rehabilitate aged and ill cows, mentioning that the government is promoting the establishment of Goshalas in Odisha by providing subsidies and financial support.
Meanwhile, opposition parties including Biju Janata Dal and Indian National Congress have called for a ban on beef exports prior to the implementation of such strict laws.
Senior BJD figure Pramila Mallik asserted that the government should investigate the reasons behind beef exports and identify individuals involved in this practice linked to various political parties. She also contended that restrictions should not target a single community.
Likewise, Congress leader Taraprasad Bahinipati expressed that his party does not oppose the proposed bill but urged the government to first prohibit beef exports before enacting stringent laws.
It's worth noting that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi previously mentioned that the state government is considering amendments to the Orissa Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act, 1960. This act prohibits the slaughter of cows and their progeny within Odisha, and stipulates that individuals found in violation of this law may face rigorous imprisonment for a term that could extend up to two years, or a fine of up to one thousand rupees, or both.
