Mosque Committees in Assam Ban Cow Sacrifice Ahead of Bakrid, CM Sarma Welcomes Move
Guwahati: In a significant development ahead of Bakrid, mosque committees across several districts of Assam have announced that cow sacrifice will not be carried out during the festival to be observed on May 28. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has welcomed the decision, describing it as a voluntary step that will help strengthen social harmony in the state. He said the move reflects respect for the religious sentiments of the majority community.
The announcement comes amid heightened attention following the arrest of former Dhubri MLA Ali Akbar Miah on Saturday. He has been accused of sharing a controversial post on social media warning authorities against interfering in matters related to sacrifice during Bakrid. The post allegedly threatened serious consequences for such interference and also contained objectionable remarks against the Chief Minister.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma openly praised the initiative taken by the mosque committees. He stated that the decision is not only in line with legal provisions but also promotes social harmony, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among communities. Sharing news clippings related to the development on social media, Sarma wrote, “I welcome this effort and hope that other committees will also issue similar appeals.”
The appeal by mosque committees comes under the framework of the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021. While the law does not impose a complete ban on the consumption of beef in the state, it sets strict regulations regarding cattle slaughter and trade. Under the Act, prior permission is mandatory for cattle sacrifice, and stringent measures are in place to prevent illegal transportation of cattle.
Political and social observers believe that such decisions can play a crucial role in maintaining communal harmony and social peace in Assam. The move by mosque committees is being seen as a positive message of mutual trust, understanding, and respect within society.