Sources have stated that the Centre's new cattle trade rules which stops the sale of cattle for slaughter in animal markets has been put on hold for a month by the Madras High Court. The court has asked the Central and the state governments to file a reply on the matter within a month.
It was stated that till now, cattle sold at markets was could be used for dairy, farming or to abattoirs. Under the new rule, cattle sold at markers can now be used only for dairy or farming. Buyers have to give their bonafides and an undertaking that the cattle will not be slaughtered.
Meanwhile the order from the Madurai Bench of the High Court comes as the
protest against the Centre's rule has spread from Kerala to Karnataka and
Bengal and yesterday Chief Ministers of Kerala and Bengal spoke of challenging
the rule in court. The Centre, they said, was infringing on states' rights.
Moreover the Indian states can make their own rule on cow slaughter and beef consumption. But the Union Environment ministry's rule which comes under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act is applicable across India. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has written to all Chief Ministers, saying it is unfortunate that a "drastic measure" was taken surpassing elected representatives and a public debate.
