The Calcutta High Court has dismissed a petition challenging the restrictions imposed by the Bengal government on animal sacrifice during Eid. (Image X @shashank_ssj)
Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court has dismissed a petition challenging the restrictions imposed by the Bengal government on animal sacrifice during Eid. A division bench comprising Justice Sujay Pal and Justice Parthasarathi Sen observed that, in clear terms, animal sacrifice on the occasion of Eid is not an essential part of Islam.
During the hearing of the case, the petitioners argued that the regulations currently in force within the state were creating uncertainty regarding the practice of animal sacrifice during Eid. Responding to this, the Court stated that laws pertaining to livestock and administrative regulations are already in effect within the state, and adherence to them is mandatory.
The High Court further observed that if these laws were not applicable, there would be no justification for the notifications issued and cases registered in this regard over the years. The Court clarified that religious activities may only be conducted within the framework of public order and the law.
It is pertinent to note that, under the state's 1950 Livestock Act, the slaughter of cattle is prohibited without administrative permission. Furthermore, the slaughter of animals under the age of 14 years is not permitted. Obtaining written permission from the local administration or the Animal Husbandry Department is also mandatory for the slaughter and sale of meat. Following the Court's verdict, political and social debates regarding the slaughter of cattle in the state have intensified ahead of Eid.
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