A new directive issued by the West Bengal government ahead of Eid al-Adha has triggered widespread fear and controversy across the state. The Home Department’s order imposes strict conditions on animal sacrifice, requiring a joint fitness certificate from local authorities and a government veterinarian before slaughtering cows, buffaloes, or bulls. Only animals over 14 years old or those permanently unfit for work may be slaughtered, with violations punishable by six months’ imprisonment and fines. The directive has reportedly intensified the activities of self-proclaimed cow protection groups, especially in Muslim-majority areas, creating a tense atmosphere.

Many Muslims view the order as a deliberate attempt to restrict their religious practices and marginalize their community socially and economically. Analysts argue that Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari’s BJP-led government is using the directive to deepen communal polarization. Economists warn that the restrictions could severely disrupt the livestock and meat trade, affecting thousands of livelihoods and damaging the rural economy and leather exports.

Experts caution that such policies, driven by sectarian motives, could inflict lasting harm on West Bengal’s economy and social harmony.