On May 6, 2026, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power in West Bengal for the first time, prompting Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari to order strict enforcement of a 1950 law regulating cattle slaughter. The directive requires official certification and restricts slaughter to designated facilities for animals over 14 years old. As Eid al-Adha approaches, the Dhulagorh cattle market near Kolkata stands nearly deserted, with traders reporting heavy losses and fear of administrative action.
The crackdown has severely affected the state’s beef trade. Muslim butchers, restaurant owners, and street vendors have shut down operations, while beef prices have fallen sharply. Kolkata’s “The Burger Shop” suspended its popular beef burger after suppliers were forced to close. Longtime meat sellers report collapsing demand and early shop closures. Traders who borrowed heavily for the festival now face financial ruin.
BJP spokesperson Debjit Sarkar defended the move as lawful enforcement, while legal expert Jaysingh Nugggehalli said such bans are tied more to identity and livelihood politics than animal welfare. Activist Harsh Mander described the developments as part of a broader ideological project marginalizing Muslims in India.
কলকাতা প্রতিনিধি প্রকাশ : ২৭ মে ২০২৬, ১৯: ৩৯ পবিত্র ঈদুল আজহার আর একদিন বাকি। কিন্তু ভারতের পশ্চিমবঙ্গ রাজ্যের রাজধানী কলকাতার উপকণ্ঠে অবস্থিত বিশাল ধুলাগড় পশুর হাট এখন প্রায় জনশূন্য। টিনের চালার নিচে ব্যবসায়ীরা দল বেঁধে বসে আছেন। খোলা আকাশের নিচে প্
The ‘1 Nojor’ media platform is now live in beta, inviting users to explore and provide feedback as we continue to refine the experience.
