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Calcutta High Court has given a big decision on the ongoing controversy regarding animal sacrifice before Bakrid in West Bengal. The High Court rejected the petition which challenged the notification of the West Bengal government, which has imposed strict rules on animal slaughter and sacrifice during festivals. The court clearly said in its decision that cow sacrifice is not an essential part of Islam or Bakrid. The court also held that the state government can make rules to control animal sacrifice keeping in mind public interest and law and order.

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What did the court say?

The High Court said that it is necessary to respect religious freedom, but it does not mean that any activity should be done in public without rules. The court made it clear that animal sacrifice cannot be allowed in the open or in public places. The court directed that animal slaughter should be done only at designated and safe places. Along with this, the court has advised the state government to consider relief or relaxation in the rules regarding sacrifice of other animals.

Court's comment on cow sacrifice

In the judgment the court specifically said that cow sacrifice could not be proved to be an essential part of any religious festival. This is the reason why the court accepted the ban imposed by the government as correct. According to legal experts, the court has tried to strike a balance between religious rights and public interest in its decision.

What did the court say on animal sacrifice in temples?

During the hearing, mass animal sacrifices in temples, especially during Kali Puja, were also discussed. The court also rejected the petitions filed in this regard. The court said that religious traditions cannot be completely banned. The court also made it clear that this issue should not be linked to the idea of ​​making the entire country vegetarian.

What is the whole controversy?

The whole matter is related to a notification issued by the West Bengal government. The government had imposed several strict rules to control animal sacrifice during Bakrid and other festivals. The petitioners said that special exemption should be given for festivals under the Animal Slaughter Control Act 1950. At the same time, on behalf of the state government and the central government, it was said in the court that the notification has been issued completely within the ambit of the law.

Which rules did the government implement?

According to the rules issued by the state government-

• Sacrifice of animals without fitness certificate will be banned
• Animal slaughter will not be allowed in public and open places.
• Sacrifice can be performed only at designated and safe places.
• Legal action will be taken against those who violate the rules

The government says that the purpose of these rules is to maintain public health, cleanliness and law and order.

Political and social discussion increased before Bakrid

After this decision of the High Court, political and social debate has intensified in the state. Some organizations have supported the decision, while some religious groups are linking it to religious freedom. Experts believe that in the times to come, this matter may become the subject of a major debate regarding the balance between religious rights, administrative control and public order.