The Government of West Bengal has issued a formal notification mandating that no cattle, specifically cows and buffaloes, may be slaughtered without a compulsory fitness certificate or prior official authorisation. This directive, implemented under the administration led by Suvendu Adhikari, aligns with existing legislative frameworks and previous judicial mandates.
Regulatory Framework and Legal Basis
The provincial government cited the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950, and a 2018 Calcutta High Court directive as the primary legal grounds for this enforcement. Under the new regulations, the slaughter of cattle without a verified certificate is strictly prohibited across the state.
The authority to issue these fitness certificates rests with the heads of Municipalities or the Presidents of Panchayat Samitis. Crucially, each certificate must carry the counter-signature of a government-appointed veterinary officer to be considered valid.
Criteria for Obtaining Slaughter Certification
The notification outlines stringent criteria for the legal slaughter of cattle. Owners or butchers must demonstrate that the animal meets specific age and health conditions.
| Requirement Category | Specific Criteria |
| Minimum Age | The animal must be over 14 years of age. |
| Physical Capability | Proof that the animal is no longer fit for labour or work. |
| Reproductive Status | Evidence that the animal is no longer capable of breeding. |
| Health Exemptions | Animals under 14 years may be slaughtered if they suffer from incurable diseases, severe injuries, or permanent deformities. |
Owners seeking permission must submit these details in writing. If a Municipality head or Panchayat President denies the certification, the applicant retains the right to appeal to the state government within 15 days of the refusal.
Enforcement and Penalties
In addition to the certification requirements, the West Bengal government has ordered the immediate closure of all roadside abattoirs. Slaughtering activities are now restricted exclusively to designated slaughterhouses approved by municipal or local administrations.
Non-compliance with these regulations carries significant legal consequences. Under the provisions of the 1950 Act, individuals found slaughtering cattle without the requisite authorisation may face:
Imprisonment for a term of up to six months.
A financial penalty of 1,000 INR.
Both a prison sentence and a fine.
This move marks a shift in the operational management of the meat industry within the state, centralising slaughter activities and strictly enforcing age-related husbandry laws.