Bengal BJP govt cracks down on cattle slaughter, makes fitness certificate mandatory
The Statesman | 14 May 2026
In one of its first major administrative directives after taking office, the BJP government in West Bengal has reinforced existing restrictions on cattle and buffalo slaughter, making it clear that no animal can be slaughtered without a mandatory fitness certificate issued under the provisions of the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950, and in line with a 2018 Calcutta High Court order.
The directive comes as the Suvendu Adhikari-led government begins implementing a series of administrative measures after the BJP’s emphatic victory in the 2026 Assembly elections, which ended the Trinamool Congress’s 15-year rule in the state. The directive signals a tougher administrative approach on issues linked to animal slaughter and regulation, an area that has often carried political and social sensitivity in the state.
According to the notice, no cattle or buffalo can be slaughtered unless authorities certify that the animal is either over 14 years of age and no longer fit for work or breeding, or has become permanently incapacitated due to injury, deformity, old age, or an incurable disease.
The government clarified that such certification cannot be issued unilaterally. It must be jointly approved in writing by the Chairperson of a Municipality or the President of a Panchayat Samiti along with a Government Veterinary Officer.
The state government has also prohibited slaughter outside authorised premises. Animals can now be slaughtered only at municipal slaughterhouses or facilities specifically designated by the local administration.
Officials said the directions were being reiterated in line with existing legal provisions and court directives.
Under the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950, violation of the rules can invite imprisonment of up to six months, a fine up to ₹1,000, or both.
The notice further states that individuals whose applications for fitness certificates are rejected can approach the state government in appeal within 15 days from the date of communication of rejection.
The BJP secured a decisive mandate in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, winning 206 seats in the 294-member House. The result marked a dramatic jump from the party’s tally of 77 seats in the previous Assembly election.
The Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress, which had won 212 seats in the last polls, was reduced to 80 seats, with the party also leading in one constituency.
The latest directive is among a series of measures announced by the new government after bringing an end to the TMC’s 15-year rule in the state.