Amaravati, May 27 (PTI) Andhra Pradesh Minister K Atchannaidu on Wednesday warned of strict action against the slaughter and illegal transportation of prohibited animals during Bakrid, saying protection and preservation laws must be followed.
The minister reviewed Bakrid preparedness with concerned departments and directed field-level officials to remain alert and ensure strict enforcement of laws governing animal transportation, protection and slaughter across the state during the festival period.
“Government laws, rules and regulations related to animal slaughter, transportation and protection must be compulsorily followed during Bakrid (May 28), and violations will attract strict action,” the state agriculture and animal husbandry minister said in a press release.
He said special laws governing animal transportation, protection and slaughter are being implemented across the country, and observed that while such regulations are framed nationally, permissions and prohibitions differ from state to state.
The minister clarified that in Andhra Pradesh, slaughter for meat consumption is permitted only for goats, sheep, pigs, chickens, ducks, fish and buffaloes not used for reproduction, and reiterated that slaughter of cows, calves and camels is completely prohibited.
Atchannaidu advised people involved in animal transportation to comply with animal welfare regulations and directed that all precautions be taken to ensure livestock are not subjected to inconvenience or cruelty.
He warned that transporting livestock beyond prescribed limits and slaughtering prohibited animals are unlawful acts, and said criminal action would be initiated against violators.
The minister said strict cases would be registered under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and Andhra Pradesh laws relating to the prohibition of cow slaughter and animal preservation if prohibited animals are slaughtered or transported illegally.
He noted that veterinary staff have already been instructed to coordinate with Revenue, Police, Municipal and Panchayat Raj departments to prevent unauthorised slaughter and ensure effective monitoring during Bakrid.
Atchannaidu advised people to contact nearby police authorities for complete information regarding applicable laws and regulations, and appealed to the public to respect animal protection provisions and act in accordance with the law. PTI MS SSK
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