Anti-cattle slaughter Bill to be sent to President

by The Hindu

Banglore: The controversial Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Bill, 2010, passed by the Bharatiya Janata Party Government amid protests, has been reserved by Governor H.R. Bhardwaj for consideration of the President.

A communication from the Governor's secretariat said that the Bill was being reserved "after due consideration of the provisions of the Bill with reference to Constitutional provisions relating to the Fundamental Rights, the rulings of the apex court and adverse effect on the lives of large sections of people in the State and lack of legislative competence".

The anti-cattle slaughter Bill was one of several passed by voice vote in the recent legislature session amid a dharna by the combined Opposition. There have been widespread protests throughout the State against the Bill on the grounds that it disrespects the food habits and requirements of a large number people who will be denied access to a relatively cheap form of protein. It is equally against the interests of farmers who would be denied the right to sell unsustainable cattle, its detractors allege. The Bill is considered the most stringent of the several cow protection laws that are in force in other States, and as one attempting to create a communal divide in society. Several appeals were made to the Governor asking that he withhold the Bill.