Cow slaughter bill passed in Karnataka

The much maligned and contentious cow slaughter bill was okayed on Friday by the legislative assembly amid dramatic scenes.

Even after more than four-and-a-half hours of discussion, the opposition demanded the withdrawal of the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Bill, 2010, stating it was anti-people and anti-minority.

But the government defended the bill that sought to protect cow wealth.

The opposition was apprehensive that a particular community was being targeted, and also feared harassment and corruption as more power would be vested with officials, especially the local sub-inspectors.

The bill stated that slaughter of a cow, calf, bull, bullock, buffalo was completely banned in the state. There was also prohibition of sale, usage and possession of beef and restriction on transport of cattle. It said a police official had the authority to search and seize cattle. The law provided for imprisonment from one year to seven years, with a fine of Rs25,000-Rs50,000.

Defending the bill, chief minister BS Yeddyurappa said, “We have brought this bill to replace the 1964 Act and protect cattle. Similar bills are in operation in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Jammu and Kashmir.”

Opposition party leader Siddaramaiah said, “The bill is against the secular character of the Constitution and it forces non-vegetarians to become vegetarians. It will impact cost of living and food problems will increase.”

Speaker KG Bopaiah announced that the bill was passed by voice vote, while the opposition members tore copies of the bill.