Kerala BJP Leader Criticises Assam's Beef Ban, Calls for Freedom Of Choice

Kerala BJP vice-president Major Ravi on Thursday criticised Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's decision to impose a ban on beef consumption in hotels and public places. Ravi drew a distinction between beef and cow, stating that not understanding this difference could send the wrong message to the public.

He also argued that individuals should have the freedom to choose what they eat.

"First of all, you need to understand what beef is and what cow is. If you suddenly ban beef, it will send the wrong message to many people," he said, as quoted by news agency ANI.

"If someone wants to eat, they should... there should be freedom to eat what you want," the BJP leader added, clarifying that beef refers to buffaloes and bulls.

Ravi also pointed to Kerala as an example, where beef, pig, and pork are easily accessible. However, he acknowledged that cows hold significant sentimental value for Hindus.

"We worship cows. I haven't seen any place where cows are being slaughtered," he said, urging Assam's Chief Minister to understand the distinction.

On Wednesday, Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a complete ban on the serving and consumption of beef in Assam. He explained that the previous rule, which restricted beef consumption within a 5 km radius of temples, had now been expanded to cover the entire state, including public spaces, hotels, and restaurants.

Previously, consuming beef was not illegal in Assam, but The Assam Cattle Preservation Act of 2021 prohibits cattle slaughter and the sale of beef in areas with a majority of Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs, as well as within a 5-km radius of temples or Vaishnavite monasteries. The new ban now extends to hotels, restaurants, and public places across the state.