On Wednesday, the Madras High Court directed the Tamil Nadu government to ensure a complete prohibition on cow and calf slaughter across the State, including on the eve of Bakrid. The direction assumes significance amid heightened sensitivities surrounding animal sacrifice during Eid al-Adha and is likely to trigger stricter enforcement measures across slaughterhouses and public spaces in Tamil Nadu.
The matter came before a vacation bench after a Public Interest Litigation alleged that arrangements were being made for the sacrifice of cows and calves in locations other than designated slaughterhouses ahead of Bakrid celebrations. The Petitioner sought preventive directions against public slaughter of cows, contending that such activities violated existing legal restrictions.
During the hearing, the Court examined constitutional obligations relating to cattle preservation under Article 48 of the Constitution and also referred to an earlier government order prohibiting the slaughter of cows and heifers in slaughterhouses across Tamil Nadu in the interest of milk production and rural economy.
The Division Bench of Justice G.R. Swaminathan and Justice V. Lakshminarayanan observed that the State is duty-bound to prohibit the slaughter of cows, calves and other milch and draught cattle. Referring to Article 48 of the Constitution, the Court noted that protection of cattle forms part of the State’s constitutional responsibilities.
The Bench remarked that “the cow is a revered animal” and further observed that even during the rule of several Muslim kings, cow slaughter had been prohibited. Stressing that the existing government order “has the force of law,” the Court directed the Chief Secretary and senior police officials to issue immediate instructions ensuring that “there is no breach of this order.”
The matter has now been posted for compliance.
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