A heated debate over cattle protection unfolded in the Gujarat Assembly on Wednesday after the Opposition cited official figures showing that 54,000 kg of beef had been seized across the state in the past two years under BJP rule.
Raising the issue during a discussion on cow protection, Opposition legislators argued that the volume of confiscated beef itself pointed to widespread illegal activity. They questioned the effectiveness of existing laws, asking how such quantities could be intercepted if enforcement was truly stringent — and what scale of smuggling might still be escaping detection.
Data From 29 Districts
In response to queries in the House, the government confirmed that cattle and beef seizures had been reported in 29 districts. The data indicated that, on average, around 20,000 kg of beef is seized annually.
Opposition members maintained that these figures reflect “large-scale illegal transport” of cattle and beef. They alleged that illegal slaughterhouses were functioning due to weak enforcement and claimed that those involved in the trade were operating without fear.
Some legislators went further, alleging the existence of a “monthly payoff system” that allowed cattle to be transported to slaughterhouses without police action. The BJP, they said, had sought electoral support in the name of Hindutva but failed to ensure strict implementation of cow protection laws after coming to power.
Surat Tops Seizure List
Assembly data showed that Surat city recorded the highest seizures, with 3,876 kg of beef confiscated over the past two years. Surat is also the hometown of Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi.
Opposition leaders alleged that the illegal trade continued under “protection,” claiming that those engaged in it did not fear law enforcement agencies.
Government Lists Action Taken
The Home Department detailed enforcement measures, stating that 1,810 accused persons linked to cattle and beef smuggling had been arrested. Of these, 184 were booked under the Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Act (PASA), 50 were externed, and 21 were convicted and sentenced to jail.
Among those sentenced, 11 received 10-year prison terms, while three were awarded seven-year sentences. The government also informed the House that 339 vehicles used in smuggling operations had been auctioned.
Informer Reward Scheme Scrapped
The debate also turned to the discontinuation of an incentive scheme for informers. Under the now-withdrawn policy, individuals providing information about cattle being transported for slaughter were paid Rs.500 per animal — an amount that had earlier been Rs.200 before being revised upward.
Over a seven-year period, the state had reportedly disbursed up to Rs.45 lakh in rewards. Opposition members argued that scrapping the scheme reflected a lack of seriousness in tackling cattle smuggling.
Demand For ‘State Mother’ Status
Congress MLA Amit Chavda drew comparisons with Maharashtra, where cows have been granted the status of “State Mother.” He questioned why Gujarat, despite projecting itself as a strong advocate of cow protection, had not taken a similar step.
Chavda described the recurring seizures as evidence that official claims were “hollow” and alleged inadequate enforcement of existing laws. He also accused the BJP of accepting election funds from companies linked to the beef trade.
The government did not respond to the specific allegations regarding political funding during the course of the debate.
Also Read: Gujarat Family Gets Life Terms For Cow Slaughter https://www.vibesofindia.com/gujarat-family-gets-life-terms-for-cow-slaughter/
