The BJP government of West Bengal has introduced a strict mandate making it compulsory to obtain a “fit-for-slaughter” certificate prior to the culling of cattle and buffaloes. The new directive also strictly prohibits the slaughter of these animals in any open public space.
According to a notice issued by the home and hill affairs department, the regulation applies to a specific range of animals, including bulls, bullocks, cows, calves, and various categories of buffaloes.
Under the new rules, such animals can only be slaughtered if they are over 14 years of age and deemed unfit for work or breeding. Alternatively, a certificate may be granted if the animal has become permanently incapacitated due to age, injury, deformity, or an incurable disease.
The certification process requires a joint written opinion from a government veterinary surgeon and either a municipal chairman or a sabhapati of a panchayat samity. Applicants who are denied a certificate have the right to lodge an appeal with the government within 15 days of the refusal.
The order further specifies that any animal certified for slaughter must be taken to a municipal slaughterhouse or a facility designated by the local administration.
In Kolkata, the Municipal Corporation (KMC) currently operates four slaughterhouses and has announced plans to modernise these facilities with mechanised systems to improve hygiene and mitigate environmental impact.
Notably, this latest public notice does not mention any exemptions for religious, medicinal, or research purposes, which distinguishes it from some previous orders.
Authorities have warned that officials carrying out inspections to enforce the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act 1950 must not face any obstruction. Individuals found in violation of these provisions could face up to six months of imprisonment, a fine of up to ₹1,000, or both.
