Meghalaya BJP MLA Urges Assam CM to Facilitate Smooth Transport of Bovine Animals Amid Beef Ban

Shullai highlighted the adverse impact the ban has had on Meghalaya's cultural and economic interests.

Amid the beef ban in Assam, Meghalaya BJP MLA and Chairman of the Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation, Sanbor Shullai, has made a special request to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Shullai has urged CM Sarma to intervene and ensure the smooth transportation of bovine animals to Meghalaya for traders with valid documentation.

In a letter addressed to the Assam Chief Minister, Shullai highlighted the adverse impact the ban has had on Meghalaya’s cultural and economic interests.

He stressed that the people of Meghalaya are not opposed to any religious beliefs, but the beef ban in Assam has caused unrest in Meghalaya, with opposition parties using the situation to fuel speculation that it is part of a larger agenda by the NDA to impose a nationwide ban on beef.

He said that this narrative has been gaining traction, leading to political tensions in the state.

“Sir as you are aware the northeast consists of various tribes and indigenous people whose food habits are in line with our culture and we the people are not against any religion nor do we want to hurt any religious sentiments. However the recent ban of beef in Assam has caused a stir, in our state and has been used by our opposition parties to give it a direction that it is the hidden agenda of the NDA to ban beef in the entire country,” the letter read.

He said that the ban has caused concern in Meghalaya, particularly with the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations, as it could lead to a hike in beef prices. He highlighted that around 60% of the state’s beef supply is imported, and the ban is already affecting local traders who rely on Assam’s road connectivity.

Shullai also mentioned that the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, has worsened the situation for Meghalaya’s cattle traders, who are engaged in agriculture, dairy farming, and livestock-related activities.

He therefore called for the Assam government’s intervention to allow the legitimate transportation of bovine animals with proper documentation, supporting Meghalaya’s economy and food supply.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a statewide ban on serving and consumption of beef in restaurants, hotels and public places last week. The decision was taken at a state cabinet meeting to amend the existing law on beef consumption to incorporate the new provisions.

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