Kerala's Leader of Opposition (LoP), VD Satheesan, has criticized the Assam government's recent decision to ban beef consumption in public spaces, calling it part of the "Sangh Parivar's agenda." He accused the ruling BJP and its affiliates of attempting to create divisions within society.
Satheesan's remarks came in response to an announcement made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday. Sarma declared that the state government would prohibit the serving and consumption of beef in all hotels, restaurants, and public places across Assam. Satheesan linked the move to upcoming elections in the state, alleging that it was a deliberate attempt to polarize voters.
“The Sangh Parivar-led governments across the country are constantly trying to stir unrest among people,” Satheesan said. “With elections approaching in Assam, this decision is clearly aimed at dividing communities along religious and cultural lines.”
BJP Leader Major Ravi's Criticism of the Ban
BJP Kerala vice-president Major Ravi expressed reservations about the Assam government's approach. He urged the state administration to differentiate between cow meat and beef before implementing such a ban.
“The Assam government needs to understand the difference between cow meat and beef,” Ravi said. “Beef does not necessarily mean cow meat. It is also derived from buffalo and bulls. A sudden ban like this can send the wrong message to the public.”
Ravi emphasized the importance of individual freedom in food choices, suggesting that such bans could inadvertently create communal tensions. “We worship cows, and I have not seen cows being slaughtered anywhere in this context. However, banning beef without distinguishing its sources risks unnecessary confusion and conflict,” he added.
Major Ravi also criticized Chief Minister Sarma’s announcement, arguing that the decision should have been more carefully considered. “If someone wishes to eat beef, they should have the freedom to do so. It’s crucial not to spread misinformation or cause divisions within society,” he concluded.
The Assam government's decision has sparked a debate on the balance between respecting religious sentiments and ensuring personal freedom. While VD Satheesan sees the ban as a political move to polarize voters, BJP leader Major Ravi has highlighted the need for clarity and sensitivity in implementing such policies.
Assam Cong slams govt's decision
A day after the state Cabinet banned public consumption of beef in Assam, the opposition slammed the BJP-led government, claiming the move was an attack on people's freedom of expression and a "political gimmick" to polarise vote banks.
The BJP countered, saying the decision would protect cattle and create a society that respects religious sentiments of all communities.
Congress MLA Jakir Hussain Sikdar told mediathat it is not proper for the state to dictate people's eating habits. It is an attack on freedom of expression and religious beliefs. Personally, I do not advocate any discussion about eating habits on a political platform. He said food is a habit, which depends on climate and geography. He said religion prohibits some things and allows some, and people eat according to their religious beliefs.
PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY
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